Protest Safety Guide: How to Protect Yourself in the Streets

Essential tips for staying safe, secure, and prepared at a protest

Protesting is a powerful tool for change, but it also comes with risks.

If you're planning to join the April 5 Hands Off 2025 Protests, make sure you're prepared—check out my full breakdown of the event here: April 5 Hands Off 2025 Protests.

Whether you're marching for justice, standing against authoritarianism, or showing solidarity, being prepared is crucial. From dealing with tear gas to securing your digital footprint, this guide covers the essential safety strategies every protester should know.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by location, and if you need legal assistance, consult a qualified attorney or legal aid organization.

This is the second post in the Protester’s Playbook, a series designed to equip you with the tools to show up powerfully, safely, and prepared:

👉 How to Dress for a Protest: Stay Safe, Stay Anonymous, Stay Comfortable

With that said, let’s get into it.

Dealing with Tear Gas & Pepper Spray

If authorities deploy tear gas or pepper spray, knowing how to respond can make a huge difference.

✔ Before Exposure:

• Wear shatter-resistant sunglasses or swim goggles to protect your eyes.

• Use a mask (N95 or bandana soaked in water/vinegar) to reduce inhalation.

• Avoid oil-based lotions or makeup, as tear gas sticks to them.

✔ During Exposure:

• DO NOT rub your eyes or face—this makes it worse.

• Blink rapidly and flush eyes with water, saline, or an antacid-water mix (like half-water, half-liquid antacid).

• Move upwind and to higher ground—tear gas settles in low areas.

✔ After Exposure:

• Remove contaminated clothing ASAP and wash it separately.

• Take a cold shower (hot water can reactivate chemicals).

Digital Security & Avoiding Tracking

Governments and corporations use facial recognition, cell tracking, and online monitoring to identify protesters. Here’s how to stay digitally secure:

✔ Before the Protest:

• Use a burner phone instead of your personal device.

• Turn off biometric unlocking (Face ID & fingerprint) and use a PIN instead.

• Disable location tracking, Bluetooth, and WiFi auto-connect on your phone.

• Use Signal or encrypted messaging instead of SMS.

✔ During the Protest:

• Keep your phone in airplane mode unless necessary.

• Cover cameras with stickers or tape if needed.

• Be mindful of taking or sharing photos that could identify people.

✔ After the Protest:

• Delete unnecessary data and clear location history.

• Avoid posting anything that could incriminate others.

Essential Protest Gear Checklist

Beyond clothing, having the right gear can make a huge difference in safety and comfort.

✔ Must-Have Items:

• Water bottle (stay hydrated and rinse eyes if needed)

• Portable snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit)

• First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers)

• Heat-resistant gloves (to safely handle tear gas canisters)

• Sharpie marker (write emergency contact info on your skin)

• Cash (avoid using credit/debit cards for privacy)

• Extra mask (in case the first gets contaminated)

• Earplugs (protection against sound weapons)

• Small flashlight (if protests continue into the night)

✔ Nice-to-Have Items:

• Swim goggles (better protection against tear gas)

• Scarf or bandana (multi-purpose protection)

• Emergency Mylar blanket (lightweight warmth)

• Extra socks (wet feet can lead to blisters fast)

Dealing with Law Enforcement

Encounters with police can be unpredictable, so knowing your rights and best practices is essential.

✔ Know Your Rights:

• You have the right to record in public, but laws vary by state.

• You are not required to answer questions without a lawyer.

• If arrested, state "I am invoking my right to remain silent" and request a lawyer immediately.

✔ If Stopped by Police:

• Stay calm and don’t escalate the situation.

• Ask if you’re free to go. If they say yes, walk away calmly.

• If detained, ask what you are being charged with but say nothing else.

✔ If Arrested:

• Do not resist, even if unlawful (it can be used against you).

• Memorize a legal aid hotline and call them ASAP.

• Do not sign anything without a lawyer present.

Final Safety Tips for Protesters

✔ Stay with a buddy or group (never protest alone)

✔ Have an exit plan—know alternative routes out

✔ Avoid carrying anything traceable (like ID unless necessary)

✔ Follow trusted legal aid groups for real-time updates

✔ Stay aware of your surroundings & avoid unnecessary risks

Stay Safe, Stay Strong Pathfinders

Protesting is a fundamental right, but preparation is key.

If you haven’t already, check out my guide on How to Dress for a Protest to ensure you’re wearing the right gear for safety and anonymity: How to Dress for a Protest.

With the right gear, knowledge, and strategy, you can make your voice heard while minimizing risk. Stay informed, stay secure, and stand in solidarity. ✊

Do you have any other safety tips? Share them in the comments! 💬