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Leadership of first-responders following trauma
Journal of Business Continuity & Emergency Planning,
13
(1),
81-90
(2019)
Abstract
This paper is based on research examining how supervisors within the Delta Police Department in British Columbia lead frontline police officers following exposure to traumatic events. The study finds that the role of the patrol supervisor is incredibly important in the provision of guidance and leadership to teams following traumatic events. The recommendations include the consistent enhancement of current knowledge bases, but also new initiatives to strengthen psychological support and awareness. The conclusions are applicable to other first-responder organisations and highlight the importance of supervision in post-trauma response. This work will help reduce the stigma related to mental health and create an environment of emotionally intelligent supervisors.
Keywords: leadership; trauma; supervision; first-responder; emotional intelligence
The full article is available to subscribers to the journal.
Author's Biography
Cameron Kowalski is the Director of Emergency Management, Safety and Security for the Great Canadian Railtour Company, Ltd., Rocky Mountaineer, where he provides guidance and leadership in the areas of emergency response and security protocols for operational and support staff. Cam was responsible for the multiagency aviation security plan for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games as well as the 2010 G8/G20 Summits. He has received multiple commendations and decorations for his leadership in the field of air security, including a personal letter from President Barack Obama. Cam is a passionate advocate for mental health and leadership for first-responders, and has presented his research at conferences such as Emergency Preparedness BC. He has an MA in leadership from Royal Roads University and is a sessional instructor in incident command at the Justice Institute of British Columbia.
Citation
Kowalski, Cameron (2019, September 1). Leadership of first-responders following trauma. In the Journal of Business Continuity & Emergency Planning, Volume 13, Issue 1. https://doi.org/10.69554/ZMLH9836.
© Henry Stewart
Publications LLP
Publications LLP