Issue link: https://securitytechnologyexecutive.epubxp.com/i/118926
COVER STORY ���Should force be necessary, the initial use of calming techniques will help justify the officer���s actions. Additionally, calming helps in the ���debriefing��� phase of an encounter, where the struggle is over and it is time to restore the detainee���s dignity.��� move them to a more private, neutral setting and reassure them, etc. The elderly: They may have oxygen tanks, walkers, wheelchairs, etc., and they may have limited eyesight and/or hearing difficulties. Speaking to the elderly often means getting close to them and using plain, simple English that they can comprehend. Should force be necessary to control elderly persons, it must be applied very carefully. Restraining techniques designed to create the least possible risk of injury such as the CPI Team Control Position must be used. Verbalization to the subject and those in the surrounding area is essential. Children, especially teens: Youths often rebel against authority and need to be corrected. Sometimes they congregate in groups, and they are often strong and physically fit. All of these attributes increase the likelihood of difficulty in using force to control them. But it doesn���t end there: An older and larger protection officer restraining an unruly teenager may appear to be a bully. Add ethnic and racial factors to the equation and it becomes even more complex. Women: A paternalistic attitude may inhibit the correct use of force by male protection officers. This coupled with a fear of damaging a woman���s clothing or touching them inappropriately may make using force distasteful. All of these are valid concerns but must be balanced with safety and the duty to manage the situation. Obviously, there is a real need for confidence on the part of the officer. This is developed by mastering communications skills and is preserved by having realistic policies and procedures in place. It is bolstered by good communications (radio, surveillance coverage) and adequate staffing levels. Two or more people restraining someone is far superior than a single officer trying to do it. Having help alleviates problems in restraint as well as lessening the probability of an officer losing their temper. In short, it promotes professionalism. Officers must feel that they can take control of a situation so that they can maintain that stable, predictable environment. They must manage human behavior using all the tools at their disposal. These include verbal, nonverbal and para-verbal communications. They use officer presence and proxemics to influence and move people. If the laying on of hands or use of weapons is required, they do so in a professional manner without hesitation or prejudice. Calming Techniques A few simple-to-execute calming strategies are outlined below. These techniques are usually appropriate after officer safety has been established: ��� Breathe. Take a few deep breaths before entering a scene. This calms one down and enables more objective thought. It reduces the chance of losing one���s temper. ��� Slow down the action. Speak a little slower. Move a little slower. This tends to calm those in crisis. ��� Soften the message. Speak in a softer, lower tone. ��� Respect a subject���s personal space. Remember that violent persons may have very large personal space zones. Give them lots of space! ��� Remove people from the area. Placing an agitated person ���on stage��� may turn them into an ���actor.��� It also helps to not have to deal with ���cheerleaders��� from the crowd who agitate the person acting out. ��� Listen. Giving the upset person your undivided attention shows respect. Letting them speak and perhaps vent their frustration usually defuses the situation. At the same time it promotes officer safety: ���If they are talking, they���re not fighting.��� ��� Be respectful. Address people as ���Sir��� or ���Ma���am��� and be polite. 32 SECURITY TECHNOLOGY EXECUTIVE ��� April 2013 www.SecurityInfoWatch.com