Eyes Wide Open

Why Situational Awareness is a Journalist's Most Crucial Tool

In the dynamic and often unpredictable world of journalism, especially for those of us who cut our teeth navigating university newsrooms, the responsibility for every aspect of the job often falls squarely on our shoulders. I remember the hustle: coordinating equipment rentals, ensuring we had enough SD cards and charged batteries, wrestling with microphones and headphones, and then, the most crucial part – being physically present, on the scene, to capture the story.

This hands-on experience, where we were our own camera crew, audio technician, and reporter rolled into one, hammered home a vital lesson that transcends the technical aspects of our craft: situational awareness is not just important; it's paramount for our safety and the security of those around us and our equipment.

I've witnessed firsthand the chaos that can erupt when this awareness is lacking. Picture this: a fellow student journalist meticulously setting up an interview, adjusting the camera, framing the shot, only for their equipment to be carelessly knocked over by passersby. Or the frustration of a crucial interview being derailed by someone aggressively approaching the journalist and camera operator. Worse still, the chilling accounts of journalists facing verbal harassment or even attempted theft simply for doing their job.

I myself had a stark reminder early on when someone tried to tamper with my personal camera setup. A firm call-out diffused the situation, but it underscored the vulnerability we often face. As journalists, our minds are already juggling a multitude of tasks: framing questions, listening intently, capturing the right angles, monitoring audio levels. Adding the potential for unexpected disruptions or threats to that mental load is a recipe for disaster.

That's why cultivating a heightened sense of your surroundings is an absolute necessity. It's about being proactive in securing your well-being and the integrity of your work.

How can we, as journalists, become more vigilant?

• Know Your Battlefield: Before arriving at an event, research the location. Understand the layout, potential entry and exit points, and any known safety concerns.

  
  

• Time It Right (or Be Aware of the Time): Consider the time of day and day of the week. When is foot traffic likely to be heaviest? When might the atmosphere shift? Being aware of these patterns allows you to anticipate potential challenges.

  
  

• Observe and Analyze: As you work, actively scan your environment. Pay attention to the people around you. What is their body language communicating? What is the tone of their voices? Trust your instincts if something feels off.

  
  

• Secure Your Perimeter: Be mindful of where you set up your equipment. Choose locations that minimize the risk of accidental bumps or interference. Keep your belongings close and never leave them unattended.

  
  

• Communicate and Have a Buddy System: If possible, especially in potentially volatile situations, work with a partner. Having an extra set of eyes and ears can significantly enhance safety.

  
  

• Know When to Disengage: Your safety is paramount. If a situation feels unsafe or escalates, be prepared to pack up and leave. No story is worth putting yourself or others in harm's way.

  
  

In the demanding world of journalism, our focus is often on capturing the story. But in order to tell those stories safely and effectively, a keen awareness of our surroundings must become second nature. It's not about being paranoid; it's about being prepared, protecting ourselves, our equipment, and ensuring we can continue to bring crucial information to the public. Our eyes and ears must always be open, not just for the story, but for the environment in which that story unfolds.