Preparing for Civil Unrest Checklist

Policy and Administration

? Review agency policies and procedures to ensure that department has appropriate authority to intervene in civil unrest.

? Examine Use of Force policy to ensure that crowd control equipment and techniques are authorized.

? Pre-Determine objectives and goals when dealing with civil unrest. Plan on how to manage large crowds that become unruly.

? Identify critical infrastructure and vulnerabilities.  

? Develop a training program that incorporates crowd control formations, crowd clearing tactics, less-lethal tactics (riot baton, riot shield, less lethal impact weapons, chemical munitions etc.)

? Conduct an inventory of crowd control equipment and purchase necessary items. At a minimum: helmet, a riot baton and riot shield should be available for each officer.  

Training

? Train officers on crowd control formations such as Column, Line, and Wedge. 

? Train officers on arrest and rescue team movements.

? Train officers on appropriate use of riot baton and riot shield.

? Review legal authorities and justifications. 

? Review First Aid/CPR and tactical medicine. 

Command and Control

? Ensure that all personnel understand the situation, mission, and commander’s intent.

? Set priorities and plan for contingencies.

? Ensure that officers in the field have supervision and leadership on the line.

? Utilize a Unified Command system as Fire and EMS will likely be needed to assist law enforcement. 

? Ensure Mutual Aid assistance is prepared and understands the host agency’s plans and SOP.

? Utilize an intelligence team to ensure constant situational awareness. 

?  Prepare a multi-agency communications plan.

Logistics

?  Prepare for multiple operational periods.

?  Designate a staging and re-supply area and maintain a security presence.

?  Establish a decontamination area for responders.

?  Establish a recovery and refreshment area for responders.

External Relations

?  Maintain contact with policymakers (mayor, council).

?  Designate a PIO and give updates over social media.

?  Use EAS and other alert systems to notify public of curfews.

?  Designate Liaison to manage mutual aid issues.

?  Be prepared for numerous media requests.

Safety Considerations

?  Above all else, keep your cool. This applies to officers on the line and commanders.

?  Use proper PPE: helmets, N-95 or gas masks, gloves, riot batons, riot shields, eye protection.

?  Remove sensitive items from police vehicles and FIRE/EMS apparatus.

? Maintain security at EOC, Police HQ, Command Post etc.

? Maintain OPSEC and keep detailed plans confidential to agency.

? EMS and FIRE should operate with LE escorts.