What is the first action to take when a crowd becomes hostile?

In a situation where a crowd becomes hostile, the primary objective is to ensure the safety of both the personnel present and the general public. Notifying the command center is crucial because it allows for a coordinated response to the escalating situation, ensuring that appropriate measures can be taken swiftly and that resources can be allocated effectively. By getting out of the way, security personnel can avoid placing themselves in immediate danger and enable trained professionals to manage the situation.

This approach prioritizes safety and communication, establishing a chain of command that is vital in crisis scenarios. Engaging directly with the crowd or using crowd control techniques without proper assessment can exacerbate the issue and potentially lead to violent outcomes. Similarly, calling for backup is sometimes necessary, but without first notifying the command center, the response may lack the organization required for an effective resolution. Thus, the action of alerting the command center and stepping back is essential to develop a strategic response and mitigate risks effectively.