the mission, e.g., verifying allegations of torture may require medical expertise. For serious cases in which the mission does not have adequate expertise on its staff, it should inform the OSCE Secretariat and/or an OSCE institution to ascertain if they would be in a position to provide assistance. Except in rare instances, it is customary and necessary to approach the authorities to inquire whether they can provide clarification or corroboration with regard to the allegation. An exception might be if making such an inquiry would further endanger a victim or community. 7.2 AT THE SCENE If it is considered necessary to go to the scene of an alleged human rights violation, the OSCE staff member should exercise caution and discretion. If the event has just occurred, make sure that any injured or traumatized victim is seen promptly, if possible, by a medical professional. Obtain the co-ordinates of the medical professional and, later, a copy of the medical report, if possible. Note any obvious injuries or signs of torture. Identify any victims and witnesses and establish whether they are willing to talk or make a statement either at that time or later. Make a note of their names and addresses or where they can be located. Depending on the nature of the alleged violation, it could be useful to take photographs of the scene. It is of utmost importance that the OSCE staff member leave scenes untouched and not attempt to be a substitute for the police or other investigative authorities. Remember that the purpose of every OSCE mission is to reinforce state responsibility, not to replace it. 7.3 IN DETENTION CENTRES Sometimes, pursuing individual complaints may require visiting places of detention to find out about cases of arbitrary detention, ill-treatment, or discrimination against detainees or to seek information about a missing person. Visits to places of detention require the permission and co-operation of the authorities. In addition, the mission should consult with the local delegate of the International Committee of the Red Cross, if any exists, before deciding whether to undertake visits to places of detention. 69 7