The O.O.D.A. Loop is a process that defines how we react to stimulus. We: Observe a stimulus Orient to possible reactions Decide which of these options will be most likely to produce the desired outcome and Act on that decision. We do it hundreds, if not thousands of times a day. OODA goes hand in hand with Hicks law. Hicks law, very roughly, states that decision time will roughly double for each possible course of action up to a maximum of approximately seven, at which time, the person trying to make a decision will probably just freeze up. Lets put these into the context of someone involved in an active shooter scenario. They observe (hear) gunfire. With no training and living in a state of denial, it usually takes people somewhere between 3 and 5 shots for it to sink in that they are involved in a bad situation. Then, a lot of people will run blindly back on the route they used to get into the area theyre currently in because they failed to notice an alternate exit 10 feet from where they were standing. Some will freeze because they see either too many options or no options at all. Some will hide under their desks while some will look for a way to lock their doors and a small percentage will take some kind of aggressive defensive posture, such as gathering objects to throw or taking some kind of steps to stop the aggressor. With training, they are more likely to take more appropriate actions. Those that can get out, are more likely to do so. Those who arent in an area where escape is a viable option are more likely to do so. This preparation is more likely to reduce the numbers of people who are left out in the open to have to fight. Those people who are involved in security type operations, if theyre mentally, emotionally and psychologically prepared for that job, will do whatever they need to do to stop the aggressor or facilitate the escape or barricading of others. Although I strongly recommend structured training and practice, its not really an iron clad requirement. Some of this training can be done on the individual level or by yourself. Look for alternate exits and first aid kits. Program emergency numbers into your cell phone and understand what you may have to dial to reach an outside line if you have to go through some sort of internal switchboard (programming this as contact number one is a good idea). Collect contact numbers for your employees and keep a hard copy as well as one in your cell phone. If youre a supervisor, know where your people are and how to reach them. Consider an intercom system for each work station or office and hand held two way radios for remote locations. Have an evacuation plan and practice it, with as many contingencies as you can think of. If you have mobility impaired employees or coworkers, assign other people to assist them with either evacuation or barricading.
Posted on: Thu, 31 Jul 2014 00:22:55 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015