“Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT) for journalists” is a ten-part series developed by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Silk Road Training and Exile Hub. This fourth article outlines how journalists can respond to live threats in conflict zones, including gunfire, explosions, landmines, and the complexities of embedding with armed forces.
Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT) is a comprehensive safety training course covering core areas of preparedness for journalists working in high-risk environments. It includes preparedness for civil unrest, conflict zones, hostile environment first aid, vehicle safety, and digital security. Conflict reporting is inherently dangerous. Understanding the basics of immediate response, minefield awareness, and embedding practices can significantly improve safety in the field.
1 – Reacting to gunfire and explosions
When under fire, split-second decisions can save lives. Whether facing an active shooter or caught in an ambush, journalists should follow clear action protocols.
- Run if you can. Moving targets are harder to hit than static ones. If escape is not possible, lie flat to reduce your profile and break line of sight.
- Hide if you can’t escape. Lock and barricade doors, stay silent, and shut off phones. Seek real hard cover, not just concealment.
- Fight only as a last resort. If faced with immediate threat, improvise weapons with surrounding objects that are preferably sharp and heavy, act decisively, and aim to control the attacker’s arms and weapon.
- React to grenades. If escape or hard cover is not available when facing a grenade, turn away, cross legs, and lie face down, shielding head with hands.
- Survive ambushes. If the vehicle is under fire, get low. If moving, drive away. If stationary, exit and seek hard cover like a wall or ditch.
2 – Avoiding and surviving landmines
Landmines and unexploded ordnance remain a serious threat in conflict and post-conflict zones. Awareness and caution are key to survival.
- Know the terrain. High-risk areas include confrontation lines, checkpoints, military camps, and disused buildings or roads.
- Look for clues. Watch for explosion craters, mine packaging, trip wires, and disturbed ground. Speak with locals and NGOs about known hazards in the area.
- Stick to known paths. Use well-travelled routes, stay on tarmac, and never be the first to take an unfamiliar road.
- If you suspect a minefield, stop. Call out to team members, assess the surroundings, do not attempt to self-extract unless no help is available.
- Backtrack carefully. Retrace steps using visible footprints. If unsure, wait for trained professionals.
3 – Staying safe while embedded
Embedding with armed forces can provide access but carries unique risks. Journalists must be strategic, well-prepared, and alert.
- Respect operational security (Op Sec). Avoid discussing sensitive movements or strategies. Build trust with liaison officers and learn rank structures.
- Come prepared. Bring personal protective equipment (PPE), trauma kit, camping gear, and grab bag if needed.
- Understand vehicles and aircraft. Learn how to safely enter and exit armoured vehicles. Secure loose kit in helicopters and know basic ditching drills.
- Stay alert on boats. Use life jackets, cold-weather gear, and personal locator beacons. Wear protective eyewear and sun cream.
- Know the signals. Be familiarised with alarms, drills, and “all clear” signs. Rehearse actions in case of attack or emergency.
This article is based on the content of a three-day HEAT training conducted by Silk Road Training and organised by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) in partnership with Exile Hub.
Silk Road Training offers online and in-person HEAT training led by expert trainers with over 20 years of training and security advisory experience globally to help media professionals and frontline journalists build life-saving skills in high-risk areas.
Exile Hub supports human rights defenders and media professionals facing persecution from the Myanmar junta, helping them continue their work safely through tailored assistance, safe housing, counselling, and skills training.
← Read Part 1: Preparing for civil unrest
← Read Part 2: Techniques to stay safe during civil unrest
← Read Part 3: Planning ahead in conflict zones
