Police Real Time Incident Command Interview for Robbery/Hostage

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WHAT IS THE REAL TIME INCIDENT COMMAND INTERVIEW?
The MPS approach to testing critical incident command skills is the premier model in use today. In designing the robbery/hostage scenario (bank robbery), our goal was to develop a realistic simulation that would permit reliable and fair scoring of candidate reponses by oral panel members. The interview consists of two parts, which correspond to two phases of the incident. Candidates for first-level supervisory positions take Phase I only; candidates for higher level jobs take both. Pictures and diagrams are provided, along with a listing of all on scene personnel and specialized equipment. Candidates play the role of the Incident Commander. During each phase of the interview, the interview panel members inform candidates of each event that occurs, including incoming reports by officers who are on scene, and candidates must immediately tell panel members what orders they would give or actions they would take. In addition, other questions regarding strategy and tactics are asked at key points.

POSITIONS USED FOR?
The interview consists of two phases. Use Phase I for first-level supervisors (i.e., Sergeant candidates). Use both phases for Lieutenant or higher ranks.

POLICE REAL TIME INCIDENT COMMAND INTERVIEW USED FOR:
>>>>• Police Sergeant (Phase I only)
>>>>• Police Lieutenant (Phases I & II)
>>>>• Police Captain (Phases I & II)

TEST FORMAT
The interview simulation consists of two parts, which correspond to two phases of the incident. In Phase I, assessees are told they are the Incident Commander and arrive along with other personnel (or shortly thereafter). In Phase II, assessees are told to assume that someone else was in charge during Phase I, and that they arrive at a later point and are the highest ranking officer on the scene. In each phase, pictures are provided of the scene (which also show where personnel are deployed), along with a diagram of the area. Assessees are then informed by panel members of each event (i.e., each development) that occurs. Since the process is designed to simulate the real-time demands placed on an Incident Commander, assessees must specify the actions they would take and/or orders they would give in response to each event. Questions regarding strategy and tactics are also asked at key points. The interview for Phase I typically takes 30-35 minutes; and if both phases are used, the interview takes about 60-70 minutes. Please inquire.

SCORING AND REPORTING OF RESULTS
An interview guide is supplied which tells interview panel members how to conduct the interview and score candidates. Interviewers should be provided approximately 90 minutes to review the interview guide before conducting interviews.