Stress & Arousal
What colour zone should we aim to stay in while working?
Yellow (relaxed awareness)
What is intuition?
Early warning system; subconscious information, signals something is wrong or unsafe / dangerous
What does the S stand for? Give an example
Signal
What is the Lead Worker’s role?
Lead intervention, de-escalate, engagement, build rapport, set the tone
Where should you stand when knocking at a door?
Off to the side, 45 degrees on the doorknob side
Name one physical sign of escalation
Pacing, clenched fists, raised voice, fast breathing
Why do workers ignore intuition?
Politeness, pressure, minimizing concerns
What does the A stand for? Give an example
Assess
What is the support worker's role?
Scan environment, watch for exits, people, possible hazards, crowd controll, call for assistance
Name one red flag inside a home
Unknown person inside, clutter, blocked exit, unknown smell, dog, pacing
What happens to your thinking in “Red”?
Logic shuts down; fight/flight/freeze takes over
What book did Gavin de Becker write?
The gift of Fear
What does the F stand for? Give an example
Follow
Give me an example of how to tap your partner out
Tap on the shoulder and say "hey let me step in for a minute", "there is a phone call for you in the office".
Use the code word determined at the beginning of the shift.
Gently tap them on the shoulder and step forward.
What is a safe way to stand in the elevator?
Near buttons, close to exit, angeled stance, under the camera
Name one way to regulate when you are rising on the arousal cycle
Deep breathing, grounding, slowing your voice, positive self talk, self soothing
Name one phyiscal sign of intuition
Stomach drop, chills, hairs on the back of the neck, tension, heart racing
What does the E stand for? Give an example
Environment
Why is team communication important?
Prevents confusion, reduces conflict, determines roles and promotes safety
What should you prepare for when attending a community visit?
The purpose of the visit, what resources may be needed, review client history (if known), identify risks, plan roles, have a clear exit and communication plan, scan the environment / neighbourhood
What does the “cup of water” activity show?
Stress gets heavier the longer you hold it, everyone reaches a breaking point
Why is intuition so important in community safety
It alerts you before danger escalates
How does SAFE support safety?
Helps staff see red flags early and revise their plan
What is one thing Support should NEVER do while Lead is engaging?
Interrupt, contradict, undermine or give different instructions.
Walk away or leave their partner alone
If the client becomes fixated on one staff member, what should the team do?
Assess the fixation, switch roles if necessary, address uncomfort, bring alternative staff if possible