What should you NOT do during a hostage rescue attempt?

During a hostage rescue attempt, it is crucial for the safety of everyone involved that civilians do not attempt to assist the hostage rescue team. The primary focus of the rescue team is to handle the situation effectively and safely. By trying to intervene or assist, you may inadvertently complicate the operation, increase the risk of harm to hostages, or even jeopardize the rescue team’s efforts.

The trained professionals are equipped with the necessary skills, tools, and tactical knowledge to manage the situation. Civilians, while often well-intentioned, may not have the appropriate training or understanding of the operational dynamics involved in such high-stakes scenarios. Therefore, keeping a safe distance, staying low, and remaining non-intrusive are essential for maintaining order and maximizing the chances of a successful resolution.

It's important to follow the advice of law enforcement and trained personnel during these critical situations, which is why remaining still and low to the ground, expecting to be detained for safety reasons, and encouraging calm are appropriate actions to take while the rescue team works to manage the crisis.