Research: Hostage Negotiation Tactics

There are three especially dangerous periods during a hostage crisis. The first is the initial 15-45 minutes because confusion and panic are likely to be greatest.

The second is during the surrender of the hostage takers (HTs), when strong emotions and lack of coordination can cause a resolution to go bad.
Finally, using firemen or bringing in other people to rescue the hostages carries the highest casualty rate

Different departments may have varying team structures. The most important role of a hostage crisis response team is the negotiator. Usually there is one primary negotiator and one or more secondary or backup negotiators.


Tips on how to negotiate a hostage:

• First, when beginning negotiations, try to minimize background distractions
• Open your dialogue with an introduction and statement of purpose: “This is Sgt. Bruce McGill of the Metropolitan Police Department Crisis Unit. I’m here to listen to you and to try to make sure everybody stays safe.”  Keep the introduction as simple as possible, and always strive for honesty and credibility. Keep your voice firm but calm, and convey your confidence in the fact that this is a temporary crisis that will be resolved safely.  
• Ask what the HT likes to be called. When in doubt, address them respectfully. Try to use a name that is familiar to them. 
• Speak slowly and calmly. People’s speech patterns tend to mirror the tone of the dominant conversation, so provide a model of slow, calm, clear communication from the outset. Avoid letting your pitch rise or your speech rate quicken excessively in response to frustration, irritation, or provocation.