This document is intended as a preliminary resource for state lawmakers, candidates, and staff to use in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy in Minnesota. We recommend those using this resource also engage groups with more detailed and comprehensive tools like Democracy Security Project.

LAW ENFORCEMENT & COORDINATION

• Report threats to police, FBI, security and any other local law enforcement agencies (see here for additional information about online threat assessment and reporting)
• Request threat assessment + extra patrols
• Share updates with staff and family
• Build relationships and stay in regular contact with local law enforcement, capitol security/sergeant at arms, etc.
• Be familiar with badges and uniforms of the police in your area/state, know security/local police leadership by name and align on an emergency response plan with them
• Request to establish protocols with local law enforcement for real-time confirmation of identities when an apparent member of law enforcement comes to your door.  Do not assume that a person in a uniform is who they say they are, and identify them by name or call supervisors if needed. Always ask for a badge number and name if approached by someone claiming to be law enforcement. Contact law enforcement or call 911 if someone claims to be law enforcement at your front door to help verify that an officer was dispatched.
  
  

HOME SECURITY

• Install monitored alarm system with sensors for doors and windows, cameras, and exterior lighting. 
• Reinforce doors, windows, and garage entry
• Blur your house online using Google Maps
• No appointment; no access. Don’t engage with law enforcement, utility workers, or a delivery person who can’t or won’t identify themselves or their supervisor
• Use motion lights and trim landscaping, install window coverings
• When traveling, ask neighbors or family to pick up  mail and packages for you, refrain from posting travel in real time, and keep some lights on throughout the home, using a timer to switch them on and off
  
  

OFFICE SAFETY

• Control access to your office, limit the number of entrances/exits in use, keep updated staff lists, and create protocol for unwanted visitors 
• Keep your door locked and utilize a sign-in if possible
• Ensure new and existing team members are oriented on safety and security procedures
• Establish emergency protocols with designated roles, decision makers, and lockdown plans, and conduct safety and security training with all staff 
• Make sure all staff know who and how to report threats and incidents to 

DIGITAL SAFETY

• Lock down personal social media and turn of location setting permissions for each platform (do not post in real time or tag your location online)
• Turn off location on all devices (Settings>privacy>location on most devices)
• Enable multi-factor authentication (2FA) and use a VPN
• Keep written passwords in a safe and hidden location
• Monitor for doxxing (your personal information being posted online) or impersonation
• Remove personal info from people search sites (DeleteMe, Incogni, Kanary, and Privacy Bee)
• Use encrypted apps like Signal for texts, ProtonMail for email
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi if possible and don’t use personal info like names or addresses to name your Wi-Fi networks. If you do need to use public wifi, avoid doing sensitive work or inputting sensitive information.
• Carry a backup phone or portable charger
• Make sure you have most current updates installed for software and apps
  
  

PERSONAL ROUTINES, TRAVEL, AND FAMILY SAFETY

• Vary daily routes and routines.
• Never post real-time locations on social media, and avoid publicly sharing any content (street signs, doors with addresses, etc) that would make your location known. Share or post photos from events after they are complete and you have departed the location.
• Always carry a safety device (pepper spray, alarm, etc.)
• Set up emergency code word and contact tree; use free or low cost 24 hour security apps when traveling
• Have a limited list of approved people for pickup at school/daycare
• Have backup child transport plans and in case of emergency, identify alternative meeting points for loved ones
  
  

EVENTS

• Review Democracy Security Project’s event security guidance
• Collect, track and vet RSVPs for entry when possible
• Vet vendors (including audio visual companies, caterers, private security, etc.) Leverage local networks to serve as references for vendors.
• Know exits, how to get people out of your event space, and confirm escape routes 
• Have visible security presence at events, assign staff roles related to crowd management, and extricating lawmaker or candidate in case of emergency
  
  

EMERGENCY PREP

• Create a go bag (ID, cash, meds, charger, documents)
• Know nearby police, hospitals, and safe houses
• Practice scenarios: being followed, forced entry, device failure
• Inform staff and family members and practice emergency protocols