PSD Crisis Management & Decision-Making Skills 3

Question 1

A dispatcher receives a call about a suicidal subject who is armed. Which agencies should be dispatched?

Accepted Answer

Law enforcement and, if available, a crisis intervention team (CIT)

Answer

An armed suicidal subject requires law enforcement for safety, while a CIT-trained officer can help de-escalate the mental health crisis.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of Incident Command System (ICS) from a dispatcher's perspective?

Accepted Answer

To provide a standardized chain of command that facilitates coordination during complex incidents

Answer

ICS provides a unified command structure that allows dispatchers to coordinate multiple agencies efficiently during complex emergencies.

Question 3

A caller reports smoke coming from a neighbor's house but the neighbor appears to be home. What pre-arrival instruction should the dispatcher give?

Accepted Answer

Advise the caller to stay back, do not enter the structure, and keep the line open while units respond

Answer

Pre-arrival instructions prioritize caller safety by keeping them away from potential danger while units respond.

Question 4

During a prolonged critical incident, a dispatcher begins showing signs of stress and cognitive fatigue. What is the recommended action?

Accepted Answer

Notify a supervisor and request rotation or relief to maintain decision-making quality

Answer

Cognitive fatigue degrades decision-making quality; rotating personnel maintains operational effectiveness and dispatcher wellness.

Question 5

A caller reports a structure fire in an apartment building and mentions that residents are trapped on upper floors. What additional resource should the dispatcher consider beyond standard fire units?

Accepted Answer

A ladder or aerial truck company due to the need for upper-floor rescue

Answer

Upper-floor rescue requires aerial apparatus that standard engine companies may not have, necessitating proactive dispatch.

(PSD) Certified Public Safety Dispatcher Practice Test

(PSD) Certified Public Safety Dispatcher Practice Test

PSD Crisis Management & Decision-Making Skills 3