4.9 Debriefing

Debriefing involves collecting as much information as possible from returning search teams, evaluating their findings, and channeling that information as appropriate.

Debriefing teams will be needed throughout the day as teams continue to return. Generally debriefers are needed from noon to 7PM.

The Debriefing team consists of an interviewer and a notetaker. Interview Guidelines, based on those of the Heidi Search Center (See Figure: Interview Guidelines),) provide guidance for the interviewer.

Some training or prior experience is required. At a minimum, the debriefers should be familiar with the maps of the areas being searched and the search procedures being used. Debriefers should remember to take their time, don't rush, be positive, smile, make the searchers feel comfortable, and thank them.

A professional or experienced search team may be able to debrief themselves before their interview with the debriefer.

The Debriefing team interfaces with:

• Director and Deputy Director.
• Law Enforcement Liaison - Information collected by the debriefers may need immediate attention.
• Targeting - Further searches of an area may be indicated.
• Historian (Section on Historian) - All debriefing forms must be filed.

Equipment Needed

The Debriefing team needs the following equipment and supplies:

• A secure room with access limited to key personnel.
• Information Control forms. (Filled in from notes taken during the debriefing. Print on all forms)
• A wall map of the entire search area.
• Copier.
• Tape recorder.
• Office supplies - highlighters, staplers, colored stickers.

Individual search forms, maps, and search team photo should be collected from returning team leaders.

A Debriefer assigned to the returning team will:

• Elect to interview every member of the team at once, or select only the team leader.
• Interview individuals with specific or ``hot'' information in a separate debriefing (if warranted).
• Collect as much specific information as possible about the area searched and how well it was searched. The team or its leader needs to identify areas that were not searched, not searched thoroughly, or areas they feel might need a special search team to look at again. Ask, ``Would you further search this area?''
• Lead with questions and do not put words in the interviewees mouth. Ask for their ``gut feelings'' and use their words on the debriefing form. Let them sketch maps with as much detail as possible. Indicate any flagged evidence that was marked at the search area with detailed descriptions.
• Collect and assess any evidence brought back. Package and secure it appropriately, turning it over to authorities if necessary.
• Attach any notes or maps brought in from the searchers.
• Request that the searchers not discuss any findings or theories with anybody else.
• Make notes about the mental state of the searchers and screen for possible counseling needs.
• Plot completed search area on the Master Search Map (Section on Master Search Map) in the Targeting room.
• Prioritize Information Control forms using the check boxes at the bottom of form.
• Route Information Control forms through Targeting as necessary for further search of an area, then to the Historian.