b'The most important tactic in de-escalation is body language.of personal space tends to heighten or escalate anxiety. PersonalEighty to ninety percent of human communication comes fromspace is usually one and a half to three feet. That is far enough the body and not the spoken word. How you hold yourself isaway so you cannot be hit or kicked. Stay out of their space and just as important as how the aggressor is holding themselves. Youkeep them out of yours by steeping to the side or back if necessary may be trying to de-escalate the situation by talking to the otherto maintain a safe distance. Do not touch a hostile or aggravated person, but your body language may be showing a willingness toperson. They might interpret your touch as an aggressive action. get aggressive or physical. This is a common mistake. It is alsoWhile de-escalating another person, you want to be in a non- important that we recognize and understand the non-verbal cuesthreatening, non-challenging, and self-protecting position. Keep we detect from another person andyourhandsatyoursides.Stayfar what that may mean; for example,enoughawaythattheotherperson shouldershruggingorleaningonEighty to ninety percentcannot hit, kick, or grab you if things something may seem dismissive orof human communicationgowrong.Itisalwaysgoodtolet unknowing, very rigid walking orsomeoneknowyouareengaginga stomping may seem unyielding orcomes from the body andsubjectbeforeyoudoso.Having challenging, a jaw set with clenchednot the spoken word. backupnearbybutatadistance teeth,hand-wringingorfootwill increase the success of your de-tapping indicates you are not open- escalation attempt.minded or that you are preparing, the fi nger pointing or a hands outward approach will be read asWhatever your message or reminder may be, it is important to threatening and become an interference to your de-escalationcommunicate it in a way it will cross the barrier and ultimately be attempt. You must always be very careful with the message youheard by the subject during de-escalation. First, formulate your are telegraphing or sending with your own body language as youmessage then consider how to communicate it. A lowered voice read the subjects. level may set a tone of anger which could create fear or challenges. A raised voice may set a tone of anticipation or uncertainty which Maintaining personal space is also a very important element inmay promote excitement or disruption. A controlled voice is calmrm human interaction and de-escalation. Invasion or encroachmentand fi which promotes confi dence in both parties. Humor 278 FTMedium-Speed Ro/Pax FerryWorld-leading ship design for passenger vesselsGet in touch703-920-7070 inquiries@bmtdp.com www.bmt.orgDECEMBER 2021 11 FOGHORN FOCUS'