NCJ Number
101092
Journal
Security Management Volume: 30 Issue: 3 Dated: (March 1986) Pages: 26-32
Date Published
1986
Length
7 pages
Annotation
In the 1980's, no health care setting is immune from hostage-taking incidents. Consequently, security managers must plan to deal with such incidents.
Abstract
Since 1981, at least 73 hostage-taking incidents have been identified. These have involved criminal, aggrieved, and mentally ill hostage takers. Readiness for incidents requires a clear knowledge of police response, formal policies, and a clear line of command. Employees in a hostage situation should be aware of procedures for managing hostage incidents and responding to the hostage taker. In addition to knowing general guidelines, staff should be aware of techniques for dealing with the three types of hostage takers. Staff training should cover appropriate interactions, actions to avoid, and predictions about possible outcomes. Clear procedures also need to be established for the debriefing and treatment of hostages after the incident. The key to minimizing the effect of hostage situations in hospitals and other health care facilities lies in sound planning, training of all staff, and the commitment of management. 3 footnotes.