
Some basic advice about what to think about before you leave, and what to take.
Apart from obtaining a brief from your department on the general task in hand prior to deployment, there are issues that you should address which include:
Assessment of the area now and how it can unfold
Research on the area / possible actions from military / local habits / customs and routines
Risk assessments and analysis
Personal protection / equipment required
Duration of deployment
Accommodation
Vehicles
Points of contacts
Emergency safe places
Stores available
Food and water
Emergency plans
Evacuation routes and contingencies
First aid availability
Travel plans
Military forces
Family - do they know where you are going and what you are going to do?
Does the family know what to do / who to contact in cases of emergency?
Wills / insurance / monies for family
Communications
The above list by no means exhaustive but gives you an idea of the issues you should consider.