Safety Protocol: Disruptive Individuals on Campus
- Who is a disruptive individual?
- An individual who makes threats of physical harm to you, others, or themselves.
- An individual who has a weapon. Refer to ALiCE protocol.
- An individual who behaves in a bizarre manner or exhibits unstable behavior patterns.
- An individual who appears to be intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance.
- What action should I take?
- Contact SPC Police or dial 911.
- Give your name and campus location with a brief explanation of the situation.
- Take note of the individual’s age, personal appearance, clothing, vehicle or any other information that would help identify the individual.
- Express your authority with non-verbal cues:
- Sit or stand erect
- Square your shoulders
- Smile and make eye contact
- Speak clearly and distinctly
- Maintain a constant voice volume – not too loud
- Cues to avoid:
- Do not touch your face
- Observe the individual’s personal space – do not stand too close
- Do not touch the person
- Do not slouch, glare or sign at the individual
- Anger management tactics:
- Get their attention: Use their name, ask them to sit down
- Acknowledge their feelings: Paraphrase what they say so they will know you are listening
- Get them moving: Offer a chair, move them to a private area if possible
- Offer assistance: Use the word “we” to include them in the solution process
- Tell them exactly what you can do for them and when
- Offer an alternative if appropriate
- Advise co-workers of the potential problem if possible
Call for aid immediately if you sense the situation is getting out of hand
