SAFETY PROTOCOL:

Disruptive Individuals

1. 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 armed subject protocol.
• An individual who behaves in a bizarre manner or exhibits unstable behavior patterns. The individual who appears to be intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance.

2. What Action Should I Take?

• Contact Campus Police at 862-8300 or 911
• Give your name and campus location with a brief explanation of the situation. Take note of the individuals age, personal appearance, clothing, vehicle or any other information that would help identify the individual

3. Express your authority with non-verbal cues:

• Sit or stand erect
• Square your shoulders
• Smile and make eye contact.
• Speck clearly and distinctly.
• Maintain a constant voice volume—not to loud.

4. Cues to avoid

• Do not touch your face.
• Observe the individual's personal space — do not stand to close.
• Do not touch the person.
• Do not slouch, glare or sigh at the individual.

5. 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.
• Advice co-workers of the potential problem if possible.
• Call for aid immediately if you sense the situation is getting out of hand.