Members Involved in a Traumatic Critical Incident 08-04

Question 1

Supervision Members Involved in a Traumatic Critical Incident

Answer 1

Supervisory Officer notification mandatory
 when involved in a traumatic critical incident
 upon becoming aware that another member has been involved in a traumatic critical incident, or is showing
signs and symptoms of critical incident stress
 firearm discharge (officer involved shooting)

Question 2

The determination of whether or not the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) / Peer Support Volunteer (PSV) is immediately contacted will be dependent on the assessment by

Answer 2

the officer in charge in consultation with the Toronto Police Operations Centre (TPOC).

Question 3

Traumatic Critical Incident Mitigation Process

Answer 3

Immediately after event: Defusing Session
After Traumatic Critical incident: Debriefing session
Follow up: Referrals

Question 4

Debriefing Session

Answer 4

means a scheduled formal meeting specifically set up for members directly involved in the traumatic
critical incident to discuss reactions to the traumatic event in confidence with a qualified mental health professional. The
debriefing session takes place a few days after the conclusion of the traumatic critical incident, in a secure location where
disruptions can be eliminated and can last up to two and one half (2.5) hours. The Employee Family Assistance Program
Liaison/Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) Coordinator will work with the Officer in Charge, CIRT Peer Support
Volunteer and/or the qualified mental health professional to schedule the session. Attendance is mandatory for the members
directly involved but active participation in the discussion is voluntary.
Debriefing sessions may be conducted by a mental health professional assisted by members of the CIRT and are not
operational debriefings.

Question 5

Defusing Session

Answer 5

means an immediate informal meeting attended by an individual or a group of members involved in a
traumatic critical incident to assess the need for further assistance prior to the end of shift. The defusing session takes
place immediately after the conclusion of the traumatic critical incident in a secure location where disruptions can be
eliminated and lasts for approximately fifteen (15) to thirty (30) minutes. Two (2) Peer Support Volunteers normally lead
these meetings with Employee Family Assistance Program support if necessary. Attendance is mandatory but active
participation in the discussion is voluntary.
Defusing sessions may be conducted by a mental health professional assisted by members of the Critical Incident
Response Team and are not operational debriefings.