What to Add to a Rules of Engagement Document
The rules of engagement document (ROED) is a crucial element of an effective safety and security plan to support a march or rally. It should be developed with input from the organizers and shared with all participating groups and their members. The document should outline the overall security strategy, provide health and safety recommendations, identify the communication plan for emergencies, and offer guidance on how to report incidents.
It should include a number of basic elements to help keep attendees and stakeholders safe and informed.
Safety Briefing Outline for Rallies and Protests
Introduction (Purpose and Rationale)
Emphasize the importance of demonstrating peacefully and safely.
Highlight the collective goal of the march or rally.
Remind everyone that while passion for the cause is high, the priority is everyone’s safety and well-being.
Pre-Rally Preparations
Clothing and footwear: Wear weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for extended walking or standing.
Personal items: Bring only essentials such as ID, water, phone, and emergency contact information. Avoid heavy bags or unnecessary valuables.
Transportation and parking: Plan how to arrive and leave safely; carpool or use public transportation if possible.
Group communication: Have a designated group leader or point of contact. Create a phone tree or messaging group to keep everyone informed.
Identifying and Minimizing Risk
Potential counter-protesters: Understand that people with opposing views may be present at the march or rally. Stay calm, avoid confrontation, and do not engage in shouting matches or physical altercations.
Law enforcement presence: Expect police officers to be on-site. They are there to ensure public safety. Know your rights, but comply with lawful orders to avoid conflict.
Emergency preparedness: Familiarize yourself with exits, first aid stations, and any support personnel (legal observers, medical volunteers) in case assistance is needed.
During the Rally
Stay together: Stick to your group or “buddy system” to reduce the likelihood of isolation.
Maintain order: Keep signs and banners securely held, and do not block traffic or access points unless the rally plan permits.
Avoid provocation: If someone taunts or provokes you, remain nonviolent. Use de-escalation strategies—step back, stay composed, or move to a safer area.
Document incidents: If anything concerning happens—violence, harassment, or illegal activity—record details of the incident, including time, location, and description. If possible, notify the rally security team as quickly as possible.
Post-Rally or March Considerations
Check in: Reconnect with your group to confirm everyone’s safety. Share experiences or concerns.
Exit safely: Depart in groups, take well-lit routes, and continue to communicate via text or calls until each member is home.
Follow up: If there were incidents, file any necessary reports with law enforcement or rally organizers. Compile photos or videos for documentation, if needed.
Conclusion
Reiterate the importance of responsible, peaceful advocacy for: (Insert the rally or march goal here).
Thank participants for respecting safety protocols and contributing to a strong, peaceful showing of support for the cause.
By adhering to these safety guidelines, everyone at the rally can focus on advancing our cause and minimize risks and potential conflicts.
Ralph “RC” Miles, CPP, is the global director of safety and security for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. He is a security executive with over 25 years of private sector experience in designing, developing, and implementing comprehensive security, investigations, and intelligence strategies across different business environments and organizational cultures.
Darren Elliott, CEO of Elliott Security and Event Consulting, is a 20-year security veteran. He has provided services to major corporations, celebrities, and government figures and specializes in nontraditional, open-space event security.
