Reporting Elections, Safety and Security of Journalists • • • • • • • • • ��� • 58 have to leave suddenly. Learn and observe local community protocols and customs, including community leaders. Dress appropriately but inconspicuously, avoiding expensive jewellery and other items which may attract criminals. Learn the political colours of various parties and avoid wearing them. Be sure to have proper media accreditation which should be visible and define where you are legally allowed to visit around a polling station or electoral headquarters. If you are covering a potentially dangerous area, you have the right to ask your employer for insurance. Before leaving home, make sure you have arranged for contact with your office; telephone at prearranged times to file copy and to assure them of your safety and whereabouts. If your editor/producer does not hear from you, make sure they know how to contact you. When you are in the field listen to the locals. Pay attention to advice from people who live in a region/ area. If you are caught in the middle of a disturbance, move away discreetly but do not run, you could become a target; avoid any confrontation. Respect the local dress code and err on the conservative side. Female journalists are encouraged to wear tights and have long-lasting sanitary pads. Be aware of how sources see you. You may be dressing appropriately, but still viewed as promiscuous because of culture misperceptions. Carry the cellphone number of someone senior in https://zimbabwe.misa.org