Lesson 04: Incident Response: Hibernation, Relocation, and Evacuation¶
Lesson overview¶
Teams must distinguish between lockdown, internal relocation, and full evacuation. Predefined triggers decide when to move.
Key idea¶
Knowing the difference between hibernation, relocation, and evacuation prevents reactive movement and protects lives.
Why this matters¶
Waiting too long to move can make evacuation impossible. Moving too soon wastes resources and damages credibility.
Field context¶
This matrix applies when security conditions change, authority collapses, or travel becomes dangerous.
Leader role¶
Leaders should define thresholds and ensure the field understands the difference between each response.
Team role¶
Team members should know how to shelter in place, where to relocate internally, and when to prepare for evacuation.
Preparation¶
- Develop trigger matrices and decision points.
- Plan safe locations for lockdown and relocation.
- Confirm evacuation routes and support channels.
Response definitions¶
- Hibernation: sheltering in place with limited movement.
- Relocation: moving to another safe location within the country or region.
- Evacuation: leaving the country or mission area.
Step 1: Set trigger thresholds¶
Define clear conditions for each response, such as violence, travel restrictions, or critical infrastructure failure.
Step 2: Communicate the plan¶
Share the trigger matrix with the field and practice how to move when thresholds are reached.
Step 3: Execute the response¶
Use the pre-approved decision tree and avoid ad hoc judgments when stress is high.
Common challenges¶
Teams often treat evacuation as the only option, when a safe period of lockdown or relocation may be better.
Practical example¶
When protests begin near the compound, the team moves to a secure internal site for hibernation rather than immediately evacuating.
Reflection questions¶
- What conditions would trigger lockdown in your context?
- When would you choose relocation over evacuation?
- How can you avoid waiting too long?
Summary¶
Clear trigger matrices allow teams to move on purpose, not out of panic. Distinguish the three responses and plan accordingly.
Next step¶
Create or review your own response matrix and mark the current status of each field location.