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CIVIL UNREST

Common sense tips on staying safe

Here are some common tips for staying safe in public: 

  • Get off of your phone when in an unsafe area. Pay attention to what is happening around you.
  • Don’t go to unsafe locations or be out too late at night.
  • Travel with a buddy or in groups.
  • Be aware: Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings and other people. 
  • Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. 
  • Walk purposefully: Walk confidently and make eye contact with people around you. 
  • Avoid isolated areas: Try to avoid being alone in dark or isolated areas. 
  • Have an exit plan: Know where the exits are and where to hide. 
  • Report suspicious activity: Report suspicious people, packages, or communications to local authorities. 
  • Be wary of strangers: Be wary of strangers who seem overly friendly, ask a lot of questions, or ask for help. 
  • Be careful with your belongings: Be careful with your belongings and never turn your back to a stranger. 
  • Learn lifesaving skills: Learn lifesaving skills, such as first aid training. 

Here are some ways to prevent violence: 

  • Get involved: Join a violence prevention group, PTA, or community patrol. You can also work with schools and local councils to create safety networks.  
  • Learn the signs: Learn how to identify abuse and violence, and how to help.   
  • Listen to survivors: Believe survivors and listen to them.   
  • Educate yourself: Attend events and programs to learn how to end violence.  
  • Create a plan: Create a citywide plan to stop violence, and identify key people and places to engage.  
  • Invest in workforce development: Invest in anti-violence workforce development.  
  • Enhance security: In the workplace, install security cameras, hire security personnel, and implement security protocols.   
  • Talk to children: Talk to children about their online friendships, and be aware of signs of risky friendships.  
  • Establish a crisis management team: In the workplace, establish a crisis management team to evaluate and improve the plan to prevent violence. 
  • Provide positive outlets: Provide positive ways for youth to spend their spare time, such as tutoring programs, organized recreation, part-time work, and volunteer opportunities. 

Attacks in Crowded and Public Spaces

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What to do if you are in a school lock down

If you are in a school lockdown, immediately go to your nearest classroom, lock the door, turn off the lights, silence your phone, stay quiet, remain out of sight from windows and doors, and follow instructions from your teacher or school officials until an “all clear” is given; never leave the room unless instructed to do so by authorities. 

Key points to remember during a school lockdown:

  • Follow instructions: Listen carefully to announcements and directions from teachers or administrators. 
  • Secure your room: Lock all doors, close blinds, and turn off lights. 
  • Stay hidden: Position yourself away from windows and doors, and stay low to the ground if possible. 
  • Remain silent: Avoid talking or making noise. 
  • Account for everyone: Teachers should take roll call to ensure all students are present. 
  • Do not open the door: Only open the door if instructed by a school official or law enforcement. 
  • Report any issues: If you notice anything suspicious or someone is missing, inform your teacher or school administration.