Civil Unrest

Civil disturbances include riots, property damage, threatening individuals, or assemblies that have become significantly disruptive. Demonstrations are visible actions designed to advocate a position on a particular issue. Most are peaceful and only occasionally cause an inconvenience. They become problematic when they obstruct business.

In Case of Civil Disturbance or Demonstration

Avoid provoking or obstructing demonstrators.
Secure your area (lock doors and safes; remove files, vital records and expensive equipment).
Avoid the area of disturbance.
Continue with normal routines as much as possible.
If the disturbance is outside, stay away from doors or windows. Stay inside.
If officers are not present, call 911 to alert them to the situation.

Tourism Impact of the Los Angeles Riots

The tourism effects of civil disturbances can be devastating and long lasting, perhaps permanent. The case studies show both an immediate loss in numbers of international tourists and long-term loses of 20% to 30% of visitor arrivals. This reflects impacts on independent travelers and group tourists: Damage to "safety and security" and "friendly residents" perceptions are particularly difficult (and expensive) to correct. They are key considerations for site selection and evaluation by international travelers. Temporary changes in the itineraries of tour operators become permanent (unless there is a reason to change back). The shifts in the itineraries of tour operators will have direct consequences to related destinations that typically tie in with a Los Angeles tour (including, particularly, Hawaii, Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, and Las Vegas). The effects on Hong Kong tourism of the suppression in Tiananmen Square amply demonstrates this potential. Some international visitors will also project the Los Angeles experience as indicative of other U.S. cities and shift travel to other countries or regions. Impacts can be substantially reduced through aggressive marketing and promotion efforts in key markets. However, this is generally not through the media. The key is having an extensive and reliable customer database that allows you to provide a personal and rapid response to allay customer concerns.

If an event may trigger a violent reaction within your community, it may be prudent to take additional precautions including evacuation or closing, initiating your call down procedures or heightening security precautions.