INSI Safety Advisory for Female Journalists

INSI Safety Advisory for Female Journalists

In the days following the sexual attack on the well-known CBS

reporter Lara Logan, much has been made of the threats that

might be faced by female journalists.

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The International News Safety Institute has put together the

following safety advisory for women. INSI is also in the process

of creating a more substantial document with advice,

anecdotes and helpful information, which should be available

within the next few months.

WOMEN TRAVELLERS – GENERAL INFORMATION

If travelling alone, choose a good standard hotel where security is of

a higher standard than you might stay in if travelling with male

colleagues.

Try not to attract unwanted attention by striking up conversations or

making eye contact with strangers. It can sometimes be

misinterpreted as flirting.

Unless you want to be the centre of attention, do not wear tight fitting

or revealing clothes

If you’re alone and facing unwanted attention, have a cover story

prepared – ‘I am waiting for my husband/boyfriend/colleague to

arrive’. If the pestering continues, try and join a large group of people

– preferably mixed sex

Don’t wear expensive jewellery, but do consider wearing a cheap ring

on your wedding finger, even if you’re not married.

Always remain alert.

Consider taking a male colleague with you into potentially volatile

situations.

Do not wear a pony tail or necklace which can be easily grabbed.

Wear a sturdy belt.Keep a copy of your passport and documents with you at all times

and store the originals in a safe place.

Carry a mobile phone with local emergency numbers saved. Do not

keep this in your handbag, in case it is snatched.

Be aware of discussing details of your work with people you do not

know. It may sometimes be better to pretend to work in an alternative

profession – ie. teaching.

TRAVELLING

If travelling alone, always tell someone where you are going, how you

plan on getting there and when you expect to be back. If you are

meeting someone, leave a name and number for them with someone

you trust.

BY FOOT

Avoid walking alone by yourself, especially in poorly lit areas, quiet

streets and alleyways

If possible, try to walk close to groups of people. Be aware of who is

around you.

Walk confidently, with your head up, and as though you look like you

know where you’re going.

Arrange to meet people in well-lit and busy areas.

Where possible avoid carrying handbags; but if it is necessary

wear them across your body.

If you suspect you are being followed, try to find a busy place: hotel,

shop etc.

TAXIS

Always use a reputable company – avoid unlicensed cars.

Agree the cost before you leave if the taxi does not have a meter.

If alone, try not to sit in the front of the taxi. If you are in the back and

being troubled by the driver, you have two doors from which to exit -

but remember some cabs have automatic locking when the car is

moving.

BUSES

Sit near the driver.