When the game is on the line in any major sport, a head coach may call a time-out. This may be done for several reasons. For instance, the coach can receive timely assessments from players and other coaches, develop and communicate a strategy, implement a play, or change the game’s momentum.
Similarly, during critical incidents, such as those involving hostages, barricaded criminals, or suicidal subjects, the on-scene commander (OSC) — or another crisis manager — may want to consider this same technique.
The OSC should not try to manage such incidents in isolation but rather develop strategies that incorporate input from other stakeholders in a holistic approach. This holds especially true when there is an opportunity to solicit guidance and suggestions from subject matter experts during a time-out.