Quick Start Guide
Quick Start Guide
Section titled “Quick Start Guide”This guide provides the essential steps to get started with rapid response. For detailed information on each topic, explore the linked pages.
Step 1: Get Trained
Section titled “Step 1: Get Trained”Before responding to any situation, you need proper training:
- Read through this wiki thoroughly
- Watch the ICE Watch Video Training (Password:
ICE*Basic@2025) - Attend a local ICE Watch training if available
- Review the SALUTE reporting method
- Understand how to identify ICE vehicles and agents
Step 2: Set Up Digital Security
Section titled “Step 2: Set Up Digital Security”Protect yourself and your community:
- Download Signal on your smartphone
- Set up a Signal username (Settings → Profile → Username)
- Enable lock screen password
- Turn off face/fingerprint recognition
- Turn off location services when not needed
- Disable message previews on lock screen
- Clear enough storage for video recording
See Digital Security for detailed setup.
Step 3: Find or Start a Network
Section titled “Step 3: Find or Start a Network”Connect with existing networks or start your own:
- Search for existing ICE Watch groups in your area
- Reach out to local immigrant rights organizations
- If none exist, gather 2-3 trusted neighbors to start
- Establish a Signal group with clear protocols
See Starting an ICE Watch Group for details.
Step 4: Know Your Rights
Section titled “Step 4: Know Your Rights”Understand the legal framework:
- Review your right to record law enforcement
- Memorize key phrases for encounters
- Carry a Know Your Rights card in your wallet
- Know your local hotline numbers
Step 5: Prepare Your Go-Bag
Section titled “Step 5: Prepare Your Go-Bag”Keep essentials ready:
Must have:
- Phone with camera
- State or government ID
- Phone charger / battery pack
Good to have:
- Whistle / noisemaker
- Know Your Rights cards to distribute
- Flashlight
- Neighborhood map
Never bring:
- Weapons
- Illegal substances
- Open containers of alcohol
See Go-Bag Contents for the full list.
Step 6: Learn the SALUTE Method
Section titled “Step 6: Learn the SALUTE Method”When you see potential ICE activity, gather and report:
| Letter | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| S | Size/Strength | 5 to 6 armed agents |
| A | Actions/Activities | Waiting outside a marked van |
| L | Location | Corner of Central & Main, east side |
| U | Uniform | Vests that say POLICE ICE |
| T | Time & Date | January 21st, 12:05 PM |
| E | Equipment | Body armor, pepper spray |
See SALUTE Reporting for details.
Step 7: Know the Response Hierarchy
Section titled “Step 7: Know the Response Hierarchy”When responding, prioritize in order:
- Get more help → Call hotline, alert Signal group
- Help the person → Shout rights info, get their information
- Document → Record video, take notes
- Use your presence → Numbers matter
Quick Reference Numbers
Section titled “Quick Reference Numbers”Keep these saved in your phone:
- National Lawyers Guild: www.nlg.org/know-your-rights
- ICIRR Family Support Hotline (Illinois): 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY (1-855-435-7693)
- First Defense Legal Aid: 1-800-529-7374
What to Do When You See Something
Section titled “What to Do When You See Something”If you’re NOT sure it’s ICE:
Section titled “If you’re NOT sure it’s ICE:”- Observe from a safe distance
- Look for indicators (see Identification)
- If still uncertain, note details and continue monitoring
- Don’t spread unconfirmed reports
If you’re CONFIDENT it’s ICE:
Section titled “If you’re CONFIDENT it’s ICE:”- Immediately call your local hotline
- Send SALUTE info to your Signal network
- Begin recording if safe to do so
- Alert nearby community members
- Stay and document if comfortable
Next Steps
Section titled “Next Steps”- Explore the full Roles & Responsibilities section
- Review Response Protocols in detail
- Complete the Safety Checklist
- Connect with your local network