How soon after a traumatic response should Critical Incident Stress Debriefing be held?

• A. After returning to the station
• B. Not less than three days later
• C. As soon as possible
• D. Sometime during the next shift

Answer: (C)

Prompt, immediate peer support after a traumatic event helps responders process what happened while emotions are still fresh. The sooner a structured debriefing is offered, the better the chance to normalize reactions, identify anyone who may need additional help, and start coping strategies before distress becomes more entrenched. Delaying the session—even to the next shift or several days later—can allow confusion, avoidance, or lingering distress to take hold, making it harder to connect, reflect, and support one another effectively. Conducting the debriefing as soon as practical, once safety allows, aligns with giving timely, supportive intervention that reduces the risk of longer-term impact.