Frequently Asked Questions:
1. We help anyone in need or in danger.
2. What specific actions do you take? Neighborhood watch
Apply CPR/First Aid
Charity/Fundraising
Homeless outreach
Crisis/Disaster response
Public hazard management
Conflict de-escalation
Crime intervention/Witness reporting
General public assistance
Every time we patrol, we encounter different scenarios. There is no *usual*
night out, which is why we are prepared for a variety of possible events.
3. Why the costumes and code names? Our outfits are designed to be utilitarian. They can be described as personalized or customized uniforms. The individual flair is tailored to accommodate our personal strengths, skills, and talents. It's also intended to draw attention to our actions, and to inspire people to get involved. The code names are symbolic labels to help people remember us. RLSH isn’t a specific person, as much as it is an ideal. Uniforms are a visual symbol of professionalism. Homogenized uniforms akin to soldiers, doctors, laborers, technicians and the like are familiar and invoke trust. Being public figures makes us more accountable, and accountability earns trust.
4. How, exactly, do you maintain accountability? We require ourselves to wear body cameras, and record our actions on patrol.
5. We already have Police, Paramedics, Firefighters, City services, etc. Are you trying to do their job? Basic psychology of the "Bystander Effect" includes the very predictable “Diffuse Responsibility Phenomena”- people in crowds will expect someone else to take action, so nothing gets done. We address a crisis directly, because we’re already on the scene; trained and equipped. We aren’t interested in replacing the services already in use. In fact, we provide a supplemental connection with the public. For example; because we call 911 sooner than statistically done by average bystanders; more aid can arrive quickly while we are applying our skills in the meantime.
6. Do you meet the standards of emergency service providers? Many of us do. Our team ensures that at least one active member, if not the entire team, is legally certified to administer First Aid and CPR. Each member performs a different role depending on their individual strengths, and we train on our own time to continuously improve.
7. Why don’t you apply for the service careers which already exist? Some of us have invested years in a job which we now depend on for financial security; and cannot afford the break in employment to pursue an emergency service career within the constraints of the current economy. For others, it may seem as though the structure of some service entities restrict their own ability to efficiently provide the very service they are designed to provide. Still others may believe that keeping a service team out of the sphere of establishment influence is an effective way to reduce the potential of internal corruption.
8. Do you fight crime? A physical confrontation with a violent assailant is rare. Many of us are trained in non-lethal takedown maneuvers, but only use them as a last resort after de-escalation fails, or isn’t an option.
9. Do you carry weapons? And if so, why? Over the years, some people adopting the RLSH service commitment have been physically assaulted in the line of duty. We learned from our mistakes; and the mistakes of others. Legal self-defense devices are a personal decision for each individual. members are required to comply with all local laws regarding weapons.
10. How do you respond to a violent individual? Verbal de-escalation will diffuse most confrontations. Showing empathy will usually calm people down. If there isn’t time to talk, or it isn’t possible because someone is in imminent danger or mid-assault, we can choose to put our bodies directly in harm’s way when we have the opportunity, means and ability to absorb the attack.
11. When do you have the right to use force? Washington state law has this: RCW 9A.16.110 (your state may vary)
http://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=9A.16.110
"No person in the state shall be placed in legal jeopardy of any kind whatsoever for protecting by any reasonable means necessary, himself or herself, his or her family, or his or her real or personal property, or for coming to the aid of another who is in imminent danger of or the victim of assault, robbery, kidnapping, arson, burglary, r**e, murder, or any other violent crime as defined in RCW 9.94A.030."
12. What is your relationship with law enforcement? Cooperation and open communication with police is the best way we can do what we do. We give statements regarding incidents, offer evidence and leads whenever possible, and make friendly contact while on patrol.
13. Do you team up with other RLSH individuals or activist groups? Any person, cause or issue we choose to support or partner with is vetted to prevent us from violating the law; intentionally or not. We maintain ethical autonomy to prevent any conflict of interest. Any individual member of E.C.H.O. is free to pursue activity outside the group; knowing that they are legally responsible for their own actions. Any public expression of a personal belief or opinion by an individual member is solely their own, and does not necessarily reflect the beliefs or opinions of E.CH.O. as an organization.
