Gray Man: Survival in the Crowd

Anyone can participate in a demonstration - as shown in the image in Ukraine - and it doesn't have to be voluntary. It is also not necessary for things to be quiet and peaceful there. There are a few good rules of behavior on how to handle the situation.

It is recommended not to get into the middle of the demonstration, as if you do, when everything starts moving, you will simply be pushed along. Stay on the edge, ideally with a wall at your back. This way, you have a clear view of everything that is happening and know that nothing surprising can happen behind you. Along the wall, the escape route - right or left - is also easier than in the middle of the crowd. Maybe there is also an entrance to a building, a small staircase, or a flight of stairs from where you can get an overview.

If there are disturbances, keep your distance so that it is clear that you are not one of those causing trouble here. But it is also important to keep a distance from the police. A demonstration is a stressful situation even for policemen, they will struggle to distinguish who wants to harm them and who does not. Those who run away if there is a counterattack from the authorities will be gladly seen as fleeing opponents, those who run towards them as potential attackers.

The rule is: move slowly, keep an overview, and try to move away from the crisis zone. By the way, it's worth having an ID with you. If things escalate and you are taken in for identification but cannot identify yourself, it could mean that you could be taken in for hours for identification purposes.

Try to stay on your feet and not let panic take over

Even more difficult are panic situations when everything is in motion. Rule number one: somehow try to stay on your feet. Those who fall, will be stepped over by those behind them - not out of malice, but because they simply cannot do otherwise, as they too are being pushed.

No one can stop in such a situation and help another. Anyone who helps risks their life, anyone who bends down could also be knocked over. Against the flow, one has no chance in such a situation. The only thing one could try: to move slightly sideways out of the crowd. But that is almost impossible, in such a situation, visitors can hardly assess where the center and where the edge of the action is.

Remains important: try to think clearly. Look out for signs indicating emergency exits, or for open pathways and try to move towards them.

HERE is the basic article "Be the gray man - Gray Man Theory" on SPARTANAT.