10 measures to take in the event of social unrest or natural disaster

1) PREPARE A “BUG-OUT BAG.

A bug-out bag should contain enough supplies for seventy-two hours. Wear the bug-out bag over the shoulder to leave both hands free. The contents of the bug-out bag will vary depending on the region and the threats faced.

2) STAY PUT OR MOVE ON?

The goal is to ensure safety and security for the next seventy-two hours, as that is often how long it takes for disaster relief to arrive or a riot to dissipate. That may mean staying at your hotel or office.

3) ACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH THE MAP

As a best practice, upon arrival in an unfamiliar location invest the time to review a map of the surrounding area.

4) CALL HOME.

If possible, send a message home that lets your family or employer know your status, including your location, medical condition, and plans for the next 24-48 hours.

5) DRESS LIKE A LOCAL.

In order to avoid attracting attention, dress like a local. If impractical or such clothing is unavailable, put on jeans, a T-shirt, and a jacket that a local might wear.

6) DO YOU KNOW A LOCAL PERSON YOU TRUST?

Often local inhabitants possess accurate information that can make a difference. For example, they might provide transportation and suggest areas of town to avoid.

7) STAY AWAY FROM THE CONFLICT.

Avoiding trouble includes staying away from the source of the disruption.

8) SEEK OUT THE MEDIA.

In most cases, it makes sense to seek out the media rather than visit the Embassy as those in dire need of assistance often overrun it. As most people either respect the news media, or wish to use them to spread their message, attacks on journalists normally take place infrequently.

9) ACCESS TO A COMMUNICATIONS LINK.

Ensure that your cellphone remains fully charged at all times. If it fails and you are unable to recharge, it is important to quickly identify an alternative source of communication.

10) CREATE A “CACHE” & SANITIZE YOUR POSSESSIONS

Create a “cache”: Ideally, store important documents in a locker that only you can access. Avoid using the hotel’s safe. It is often the first-place criminals look for valuables.

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