Risk assessments help the entire team – journalists, crew members, and newsroom managers – prepare for potential risks when working any assignment. Risk assessments identify risks that may be encountered and help to mitigate them. The entire team needs to do their due diligence when assessing the risk/reward of covering any story. When thinking about journalism safety, the primary goal is to mitigate the risks when covering any assignment.

Journalists, working domestically and abroad, need to be prepared to mitigate risk, especially when covering stories that may involve or lead to civil unrest. As thoroughly as possible, journalists should develop communication plans, identify any equipment or work gear they need, and plan transportation before covering potentially volatile situation to minimize risk for themselves and their colleagues. This involves an understand of the situation taking place and adequately planning for what risks may exist, including the possibility of tear gas, violence, or arrest.

Journalists should recognize the importance of securing electronic devices that store personal and work-related data. This involves developing a heightened awareness about how to protect data and how to determine the level of security needed in different situations. One thing to keep in mind is that nothing digital is ever completely safe. The safest way to get and protect information is to meet face-to-face, but that is not always possible.

Journalists learn strategies for staying safe – physically and mentally – by examining the experiences of journalists who have been there. Journalists must make sure they protect themselves, their colleagues, and their sources. Knowledge evolves so staying informed with current resources is important. These case studies are good accounts of how to protect yourself, your families, and those you cover while out on assignments.