What should staff do if youth refuse to comply during an emergency?

When dealing with youth who refuse to comply during an emergency, the best approach is to remain calm, utilize de-escalation techniques, and assess the safest course of action. This strategy is effective because it prioritizes the safety and well-being of both the individual youth and the entire group.

Remaining calm helps to maintain a controlled environment, which can prevent the situation from escalating further. De-escalation techniques, such as using a calm and steady voice, active listening, and showing empathy, can encourage compliance without the need for force or confrontation. Assessing the safest course of action involves evaluating the immediate surroundings and situational dynamics to make informed decisions that prioritize safety.

This approach fosters a supportive atmosphere that can help the youth feel understood, potentially leading them to comply voluntarily. In contrast, other methods like ordering compliance or using force can provoke fear or aggression, further complicating the emergency situation and risking harm to everyone involved.