Group issues guidelines aimed at keeping journalists safe

New York – A new set of guidelines has been published to help freelance journalists stay safe in dangerous areas of the world, including war zones.

A group of organizations, including the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma and the Committee to Protect Journalists, crafted the guidelines. Among the tips:

• Perform a risk assessment before traveling to a hostile area to determine the journalistic value of the assignment versus the threat.
• Be aware of the need for armored jackets, helmets and other personal protective equipment.
• Leave next-of-kin details with news organizations and make sure personal contacts have clear action plans in case of an injury, kidnapping or death.
• Complete a first aid course and carry a suitable first aid kit.
• Learn basic skills to care for injuries.

Editors and news organizations should approach freelance assignments with the same concern that they do for full-time staff workers, the group states.