witness interviews
This type of question encourages a witness to explain events in their own words
What is an open-ended question?
This information is usually the first thing a dispatcher asks for during a call.
What is the location of the emergency?
This communication skill involves fully focusing on the speaker without interrupting
What is active listening
These cues include body language, facial expressions, and posture
What are nonverbal signals?
Investigators use this technique to confirm details by asking the witness to repeat information.
What is clarification?
Speaking clearly and calmly helps dispatchers do this more effectively
What is send appropriate help
Maintaining this type of tone can help calm a tense situation.
What is a calm tone?
Clenched fists and raised voices may indicate this emotional state
what is anger?
This is important for establishing the order in which events occurred.
What is a timeline?
This system connects callers to police, fire, or medical services.
What is 911?
This strategy involves acknowledging another person’s feelings without agreeing with them
What is validation?
Recognizing early warning signs can help prevent this.
what is violence?
this factor can affect how accurate a witness’s memory is during an interview.
what is stress
Dispatchers may give these instructions before emergency responders arrive
What are first aid instructions?
This action can make a conflict worse and should be avoided.
What is yelling or arguing
This skill helps responders decide how to approach a situation safely
what is situational awarness?
Interviewers should avoid this type of question because it may influence the witness’s response.
What is a leading question
This can delay help and should be avoided during an emergency call
what is hanging up to early
De-escalation aims to achieve this outcome
What is reduced tension?
Personal space is important because violating it can cause this reaction.
What is increased agitation?