Revolutionizing Emergency Communication: The Time-Critical Questioning Method

A new approach aimed at enhancing information retrieval in urgent situations, such as terrorist attacks and hostage crises, has emerged from research conducted by the University of Portsmouth. This innovative protocol, known as Time-Critical Questioning (TCQ), offers emergency responders an effective framework for swiftly and accurately gathering essential details from witnesses and victims.

The TCQ methodology was developed in collaboration with the UK's Centre for Research and Evidence on Security Threats (CREST) and is designed to aid professionals across various high-pressure environments. Its utility extends beyond emergency response, proving beneficial in any scenario where rapid and precise information exchange is crucial.

In numerous real-world situations, ranging from emergency medical settings to critical software failures or transport disruptions, professionals face the challenge of extracting relevant information quickly without overwhelming or distracting the individuals they are addressing. The lead researcher, Professor Lorraine Hope, emphasizes that the TCQ protocol aims to improve clarity and efficiency during high-stress interactions. It requires no specialized training and is straightforward enough to be implemented in diverse professional contexts.

The TCQ framework begins with the I-RELATE structure, which stands for Introductions, Roles, Expectations, Line-up goals, Agenda, Topic cues, and Explanation. This structured approach establishes clear communication expectations and roles, guiding the conversation toward specific objectives. Rather than relying on chaotic questioning or completely open-ended inquiries, TCQ strikes a balance between structure and adaptability, facilitating focused conversations that allow participants to convey relevant information quickly.

To evaluate the effectiveness of this method, researchers conducted a study involving 142 participants at an escape room facility in Portsmouth, England. Following their participation, individuals were interviewed using either the TCQ method or a traditional interview approach. Results indicated that those interviewed with TCQ provided more accurate and valuable information earlier in the discussion, achieving an accuracy rate of 97%, compared to the control group's 87%.

This research suggests that even minor adjustments in the initiation of conversations can significantly enhance the quality and speed of information exchange, without increasing the risk of misinformation. The TCQ protocol was further tested during a national counter-terrorism exercise in Southampton, where it helped interviewers manage interactions with individuals who had just escaped an armed hostage situation. Participants praised the protocol for its ability to maintain focus during intense interviews, making it easier for interviewers to organize their thoughts and address crucial points.

Chief Superintendent Claire Finlay, Head of Counter Terrorism South East, expressed enthusiasm for the trial's outcomes, highlighting the operational significance of such a tool in contemporary policing. The TCQ protocol, while initially crafted for emergency and law enforcement scenarios, is applicable across multiple fields. For instance, it could be utilized in healthcare for triaging urgent symptoms or in cybersecurity during the early stages of an incident.

Future applications of the TCQ method could extend into industrial sectors, assisting teams in efficiently debriefing after technical failures or safety breaches. Researchers are eager to continue exploring the versatility of this innovative protocol.

The findings of this study have been published in the journal Scientific Reports.