Your safety comes first
Never put yourself in danger to get footage. No video is worth your safety or the safety of others. If a situation becomes dangerous, stop recording and leave immediately.
Before You Start Recording
Make sure your phone is charged and has enough storage space
Enable airplane mode to prevent incoming calls from interrupting your recording
Know where the nearest exit or safe area is located
If possible, let a trusted person know where you are
Consider having a backup plan if you need to leave quickly
While Recording
Hold your phone steady and keep the scene in frame
Stay at a safe distance - use zoom if needed
Narrate the date, time, and location if safe to do so
Capture badge numbers, vehicle plates, and faces if visible
Keep recording even if asked to stop (you have the right to record in public spaces)
Stay calm and do not engage with or provoke anyone
Be aware of your surroundings and potential escape routes
After Recording
Leave the area calmly and as quickly as safely possible
Upload to CentralEvidence before deleting from your device
Save the SHA-256 hash that CentralEvidence provides
Do not post to social media until the time-delayed release (your safety depends on it)
Consider whether anyone saw you recording and might identify you
If you feel unsafe, go to a public place with other people
Do NOT Do These Things
Do NOT livestream - it reveals your location in real-time
Do NOT post to social media immediately - wait for the delayed release
Do NOT interfere with officers or obstruct their activities
Do NOT approach a dangerous situation to get better footage
Do NOT argue or engage verbally while recording
Do NOT record in private spaces without consent
Know Your Rights
In the United States, you have the right to record police and public officials in public spaces. This right is protected by the First Amendment.
You do not have to show your recording to anyone or delete it. If asked, you can calmly state: "I am exercising my First Amendment right to record in a public space."
Officers cannot seize your phone without a warrant. If they do, note their badge number and report it.
These rights may vary by country and jurisdiction. Know the laws in your area before recording.
Ready to safely upload your footage?
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