Pro Tips for Protests
Are you protesting against austerity? We want to see you in action. Tweet a protest selfie with the tags “#selfieencours” and “@Linknewspaper.” The best photo will be featured in the paper next week.
PROTIPS FOR PROTESTS
+ Stay calm.
+ Be aware of your surroundings. Can you spot an exit? Are lines of riot police closing in on any sides? Keep an eye out.
+ Help others. Always help your fellow protesters, even if you don’t know them. Approach them calmly and always ask before touching them – if you approach too suddenly then they may instinctively be afraid.
+ Have a Plan B if you’re separated from your friends. Arrange a place to meet if you lose each other in the crowd.
+ If you have to puke, puke. Tear gas might irritate your stomach: let it out.
+ Burned by a flash grenade or gas? Remove all clothing around the burn and pour cold water on it. Make sure it’s really cold, as warm water will open your pores and make it worse.
+ Bring food and water. Sweet and protein-full things are good. Dates and almonds are good sustenance and don’t take up too much space.
IF THE COPS CATCH YOU:
+ Unless you’re arrested, all you have to tell them is your name, address and date of birth.
+ If you are arrested, they have to tell you what you’re charged with.
+ In you’re in a kettle, they won’t let you out before giving you a ticket. Luckily, you have a good chance of successfully contesting it (or you can try smiling really sweetly).
DEMO DRESSCODE DO’S AND DONT’S
Do’s:
+ Cover yourself as much as possible to protect yourself from tear gas and other state-sponsored projectiles. Tight-fitting athletic gear is ideal; as it’ll keep you warm even if you sweat after running.
+ Wear shoes with traction. Cops won’t be kinder because you’ve slipped on the ice.
+ Wear your backpack on the front of your chest so police can’t grab it. It can also serve as a shield if you’re hit with a baton.
+ Wear something with a hood to better protect from tear gas if need be.
+ Dress warmly in case you’re caught in a kettle at night.
+ Wear a short jacket instead of a long one to make running easier.
+ Bring swimming goggles to protect from tear gas.
+ Keep a respirator (the mask people wear while using spray paint) around your neck in case of tear gas. Keep it covered with a scarf until you need it – if the cops see you wearing it, they might target you.
+ Cargo pants are useful if you’d prefer not to bring a bag.
Don’ts
+ Wear contact lenses. If you’re tear gassed, the fumes can damage your retina.
+ Wear makeup. Eye makeup especially (mascara, eyeliner etc) should be avoided, as it might react badly with tear gas.
+ Carry a messenger or side bag. If you have to run, it might get stuck in the crowd or a police officer might grab you by it.
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