Practical advice to journalists covering riots

Here is some good, commonsensical, practical advice to journalists who might be about to cover riots...

The tips are a mixture of reminders from the National Union of Journalists and the "civil disturbance checklist" on the International News Safety Institute (INSI) website.

The NUJ suggests that reporters and photographers should carry a copy of both the union's and Thompson solicitors emergency phone numbers in case they should need help.

Thompsons operates a 24-hour emergency number for work-related criminal matters 0800-587-7530
INSI has called on all news desks to brief teams before they are deployed, ensuring they have protective equipment.

And it urges them to send only those journalists who have received adequate training and have experience of covering civil disturbances.

These are some more very practical tips:

* Always carry your press card in an accessible place and use it to identify yourself

* Always carry a map so you can check alternative routes and exit points

* Leave yourself time to drive the route to check for places for good pictures, trouble spots, level of policing, exit routes

* If you are parking a car, think carefully where you leave it, as you might need to get out in a hurry

* If you park too close to the unrest your car could get damaged or blocked if there is trouble

* If you are a freelance on commission, check to see if you are you insured by your employers

* Wear strong boots or shoes and strong, tight-fitting clothing which allows you to move about freely

* Shin guards, kneepads, body armour, helmet - all or some may be worth thinking about

* Always remember the weather and dress accordingly

* Carry the minimum amount of equipment so you can move quickly if need be

* Have enough film or electronic memory

* Let someone know that you are covering the unrest and tell them what time you are leaving and at what time to expect you back

* At all times you should be distinct from the protesters and the police

* Always work in such a way that if something happens you can extract yourself

* Keep an eye on fellow journalists in case they need help
Sources: NUJ/INSI