What is a critical element for effective resolution of an active threat?

Minimizing panic among witnesses is crucial in the resolution of an active threat for several reasons. When individuals are confronted with a threatening situation, their instinctive reactions can lead to chaos and confusion, which can complicate the response efforts of security personnel and law enforcement. By keeping witnesses calm, an unarmed security officer can help maintain order, allowing for a more effective assessment of the situation and quicker decision-making regarding safety protocols. Furthermore, a calm environment allows for clearer communication between witnesses and responders, ensuring that critical information about the threat can be relayed efficiently.

The other options, while relevant to certain aspects of emergency management, do not address the immediate needs of resolving an active threat as effectively as minimizing panic. For example, while gathering information beforehand is beneficial for preparedness, the chaotic nature of an active threat often limits the ability to gather comprehensive information in real time. Ensuring that phones are left off may help prevent distractions, but it could also hinder the ability to communicate vital updates during the incident. Establishing a media contact in advance is also important for long-term communication strategies but does not directly contribute to the immediate resolution of an ongoing threat scenario. Thus, minimizing panic among witnesses stands out as the most critical element in managing an active threat effectively.