Whether you’re a first-time protester or a seasoned activist, having the right gear and preparation can make the difference between a safe experience and a dangerous one. Use this comprehensive checklist to prepare for your next demonstration.
Before You Go
Planning and Communication
- Tell someone your plans - Let a trusted person know where you’ll be and when you expect to return
- Set up check-in times - Agree to text or call at specific intervals
- Memorize important phone numbers - In case your phone is lost or confiscated
- Know your rights - Research local laws about protesting, recording, and your rights if detained
- Identify exit routes - Study the area and plan multiple ways to leave
Digital Security
- Back up your phone - Before attending
- Enable airplane mode or leave phone home - Depending on your threat model
- Use encrypted messaging - Signal or similar for group communication
- Turn off biometric unlock - Use a strong passcode instead
- Know your rights regarding devices - You can refuse to unlock in most jurisdictions
Essential Gear Checklist
Respiratory Protection
- Gas mask or respirator - With appropriate filters for tear gas
- Backup N95 masks - Minimum 2-3 for you and others
- Bandana or shemagh - Backup face covering (limited protection)
Eye Protection
- Sealed safety goggles - Indirect-vented or non-vented design
- Backup pair of goggles - In case of damage or loss
- Anti-fog wipes - Keep lenses clear
Head and Hearing Protection
- Helmet or hard hat - Protection from impacts and projectiles
- Hearing protection - Earplugs rated for impulse noise (flash bangs)
- Hat or cap - Sun protection and some head coverage
First Aid
- Personal first aid kit including:
- Bandages and gauze
- Medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes
- Tourniquet (if trained)
- Pain relievers
- Any personal medications
- Eye wash or saline solution - For decontamination
- Milk of magnesia or LAW solution - For tear gas relief
- Tampons/pads - Useful for wound packing
Communication
- Fully charged phone - With backup battery pack
- Two-way radio - If coordinating with a group
- Sharpie marker - Write emergency contact on arm
- Small notebook and pen - For documenting
Clothing and Protection
- Long pants and long sleeves - Protects skin from chemical exposure
- Sturdy, comfortable shoes - You may need to move quickly
- Work gloves - Protects hands, helps handle hot canisters
- Extra clothes in plastic bag - For changing if contaminated
- Goggles/mask pouch - Keep protection accessible
Hydration and Sustenance
- Water bottles - At least 2 liters (for drinking AND decontamination)
- Snacks - High-energy, non-perishable
- Electrolyte packets - Especially in hot weather
Documentation and Identification
- ID - Know local laws about identification requirements
- Cash - In case cards don’t work or are tracked
- Emergency contact card - Written, not just in phone
- Medical information - Allergies, conditions, blood type
What NOT to Bring
- ❌ Contact lenses - Tear gas can be trapped underneath
- ❌ Jewelry - Can be grabbed or conduct electricity
- ❌ Anything illegal - Obvious, but important
- ❌ Anything that could be construed as a weapon
- ❌ Excessive valuables - Risk of loss or theft
- ❌ Oil-based sunscreen/makeup - Can trap chemical agents
On-Site Safety Tips
Situational Awareness
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times
- Know where police lines are forming
- Watch for signs of escalation
- Identify medical stations and legal observers
If Tear Gas Is Deployed
- Stay calm - Panic makes exposure worse
- Move upwind and uphill - Gas sinks and travels with wind
- Protect your face - Don goggles and mask immediately
- Don’t rub your eyes - This spreads the irritant
- Flush with water - Once in a safe area
If You’re Detained
- Stay calm and compliant - Physical resistance escalates situations
- Say “I invoke my right to remain silent”
- Say “I want a lawyer” - Then stop talking
- Remember badge numbers and details - Document mentally
- Don’t sign anything without legal counsel
Post-Protest Decontamination
For Tear Gas Exposure
- Get to fresh air first
- Remove contaminated clothing - Bag it in plastic
- Shower in cool water - Hot water opens pores
- Wash with dish soap - Regular soap may not remove oils
- Flush eyes with saline for 15-20 minutes
- Seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Mental Health
- Debrief with trusted people - Process what you experienced
- Recognize signs of trauma - It’s normal to feel affected
- Seek professional help if needed - There’s no shame in it
Emergency Contacts to Know
Write these on your arm with permanent marker:
- Your emergency contact’s number
- Local legal aid/National Lawyers Guild
- Local bail fund
- Local protest medic hotline (if available)
Stay safe out there. Remember: your safety is more important than any single protest. Live to fight another day.