You are reporting on an important story with wide ranging personal and national impacts. It is important you understand and prepare for what are likely to be testing circumstances. Do not underestimate these multi-faceted challenges.
Following the attack on the U.S. Capitol, more than 25,000 National Guard were deployed ahead of Joe Biden’s inauguration on January 20th. In anticipation of hostility or unrest, the Dart Center has compiled a host of resources that can help journalists and newsrooms as they take steps to prepare for what could be a volatile day, or period.
Covering civil unrest can be frightening and dangerous. A crowd may turn violent with little warning and police can target journalists or mistake them for rabble rousers. It’s particularly challenging to maintain social distancing during a riot, so take extra precautions to stay on the edge for quick exit. Bring extra masks, gloves and sanitizer for gear.