Common Crisis Errors & Traps
Do not speak to the media – you will have time to respond once we have established and trained spokespersons and created messaging. If a reporter is persistent, refer them to law enforcement. Do not speculate. Do not issue a press release. Do not hold a press conference. CrisisRisk will provide you with specific guidance on any potential communications with the media and/or stakeholders.
Law enforcement will have specific objectives and will be initially in control of your facility and access. Understanding when you will regain access control is needed. Don’t turn over any surveillance video or documents prior to speaking with your legal counsel. Preserve all video immediately. Never turn over the originals. Never turn over any physical computers, cell phones, etc. before speaking with your legal counsel. Inform law enforcement that you will cooperate but need to speak with legal counsel first. CrisisRisk will provide you with further guidance related to the preservation of records, personnel files, video recordings, etc.
Be sure to document who was present at the time of the event (both internal and external) to determine what people know, what they saw, what they need, and who was actually there. Often, individuals will come forward claiming they were present at the time of the event when they were not. Some will go so far as to make a financial claim for damages.
DO NOT delay contacting the 24x7 number following an event involving a deadly weapon. Time is not on your side.