askchapo

Some other comrades have covered the core of it, so I just want to add that you should know the area you’re gonna be protesting in, how to escape if necessary, best ways to get to medical aid if necessary.

I was at a protest a few years ago where we got corralled downtown and blocked in, and lots of people were dealing with minor injuries like tear gas and pepper spray. But pigs beat us back with batons at one point and some teenager with me got his arm broken. It took me over an hour of agonizingly running around with him to find a way out and get him to the hospital.

Just be prepared to leave if it gets too messy and know where you can find medical assistance

Also lots of people think milk is best for pepper spray in the eyes, but I think clean water works just as well. Wear a mask to protect your ID, but also a well fitted mask makes tear gas far less effective. If you do inhale tear gas just do your best to find fresh air and breathe deeply, sit and don’t exert yourself until you can catch your breath again. And ofc switch to a spare mask after getting gassed