Ways to Defuse a Potentially Dangerous Situations

Ways to Defuse a Potentially Dangerous Situations

Frank Costa, President Nexgen Protection Services – 

The unfortunate state-of-affairs surrounding safety and security throughout the country about hostile events has increased in all industries over the years.

Security Details follow these five strategies to defuse a situation from becoming violent. 

  1. Scan for signs of tension.

In order to de-escalate conflict, security officers must first be aware of what that conflict might look like. Raised voices or facial expressions change as anger rises. Brows furrow, lips tend to form a thin line, nostrils flare and the face also may blush and turn redder as anger builds. You may also spot tension in the body with clenched fists, stiff shoulders and even sweating. All of these physical signs may indicate that a situation is heating up and requires intervention.

 

  1. Establish authority and intention.

It’s important to calm those involved without having to take any additional measures. Defusing a situation before it becomes a problem is far superior to reacting to violence as it occurs. 

 

  1. Be calm in your voice and demeanor.

Approach the situation directly, but calmly. Speak with a calm authority. Clearly outline the policy of the event or venue. 

 

  1. Show them that you’re listening.

Active listening is a great tool to help those around you understand that they are being heard. 

 

  1. Define a resolution.

Effectively work through a resolution to make sure things don’t escalate again. The resolution may be that both parties must be removed from the area, facility or event in order to maintain safety. 

 

No two conflicts are alike, and different strategies may be needed in order to resolve that specific dispute. Defusing the situation should be the first step before using other tactics that may intensify a potentially dangerous situation further. Security guards are specifically trained to handle potentially dangerous situations while keeping people safe and secure. 

 

SOURCE: 

Hill, W., Pendants Thwart Panic, 87.01.2023. Security Today. 

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