06 – Hostile filming protocol
It's vital to obtain production insurance, particularly before you start filming in a hostile location. Errors & Omissions covers what's needed to prepare the film for release; production insurance covers everything that happens during the making of the film.
There are various types of policies, so you need to ensure the policy you select applies to the unique circumstances of your production. For example, medical evacuation insurance would be important if there will be a lack of adequate healthcare facilities where you're filming. Kidnap and ransom insurance may be necessary in locations where there is a high risk of abductions.
Production insurance is expensive, but it's necessary and should be included in budgets that are shared with funders, who should step up to ensure you, your team, and your participants are as safe as you can be. Insurance for the Media can provide insurance for parts of the world where other insurers may refuse to provide coverage.
If a decision is made to travel without insurance, all team members should be clear about what that means for them personally and for the production.