Safety guide

Your safety comes before the story

Short, practical guidance drawn from journalists' experience in Palestine and from international safety guides. It is no substitute for training, but it helps you prepare.

Safety

Before the assignment

Assess the risks: who might target you, which routes are safe, where the nearest hospital is.
Give an editor or colleague your itinerary, agree on check-in times and on what to do if you miss one.
Carry your press card and copies of your documents, and keep emergency numbers on paper.
Prepare the right protective kit: body armor, a helmet and a first-aid kit you know how to use.

In the field

Work with a colleague and never move alone in dangerous areas.
Stay away from armed positions and front lines, and plan an exit route before you start filming.
Decide deliberately when to show PRESS markings: they protect you in some places and can make you a target in others.
After a first strike, wait before approaching: double-tap strikes target those who arrive later.

Digital security

Turn on two-step verification everywhere and use unique passwords through a password manager.
Talk to sources over Signal and turn on disappearing messages for sensitive chats.
Encrypt your phone and laptop, use a screen lock, and keep your system and apps updated.
Back up your material off the device, and remove what you do not need before crossing checkpoints.
Turn off location sharing, and beware of phishing links even from names you know.

After an incident

Get medical care first, even if the injury seems minor.
Write down what happened straight away: time, place and witnesses; keep photos and recordings unedited.
Contact us so we can document the violation and help you with legal, medical and psychological support.
Do not ignore trauma: sleeplessness, anxiety and flashbacks are normal reactions, and support is available.

Need help now? If you are in danger or have suffered a violation, use the help request form or write to help@gpshield.org. Every request is handled in strict confidence.

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