Conflict de-escalation
If you volunteer in situations where people around you are frustrated or angry, you may witness or experience violence. It can make you feel scared and helpless, especially if you're in an unfamiliar neighborhood.
It’s important to know that no matter what environment you are in, there are strategies you can use to catch the cues and address potentially dangerous situations before they escalate.
The FACTS: What you need to KNOW
The Actions: What you need to DO
Recognize the signs of conflict before they escalate. Calmly communicate the situation to a staff member so they can take over the management of the conflict. If the situation feels unsafe, leave and call for help.
Take a deep breath. Calm yourself and remain calm. Use a neutral tone of voice and don't get defensive, even if insults are directed at you. If you start to become upset and can't calm yourself, leave the situation.
Look as non-threatening as possible. Avoid body language that might be misinterpreted, such as shrugging, gesturing, or pointing. Slowly back away to reduce perceptions of threat and draw the person away from public areas. Maintain distance of 10 feet or more.
Listen actively and acknowledge the person's feelings, whether or not you agree. Use their name, or ask them their name. Ask for their ideas. Repeat what you have heard, to let them know you heard them.