Effective Communication Tools

Effective close protection depends on solid, seamless communication. For principal protection teams working with local EP support, keeping communication channels open and reliable is critical to coordination and quick responses. The July 13, 2024, incident involving the Secret Service sheds light on the importance of solid communication practices—lessons the private sector should use to refine its strategies and avoid similar pitfalls.

The Shift from Radios to Cell Phones

For several years, the private sector has noticed a noticeable shift from using traditional two-way radios to relying more on cell phones and text messaging. While cell phones and texts are convenient, they have limitations. They’re prone to network issues, delays, and spotty service in crowded or remote areas. This trend can shift communication from immediate, team-wide updates to fragmented, one-on-one messages that lack urgency.

The July 13 incident is a prime example of how limited, siloed communication can lead to significant failures. Information about the suspect, Thomas Crooks, was shared with only a handful of officers through texts and phone calls instead of broadcasting over open radio channels. This selective approach delayed a broader response and hurt situational awareness. Additionally, when the Secret Service counter-sniper team chose not to accept a radio from local law enforcement, they lost the chance for real-time, direct communication—creating a dangerous gap. For private-sector EP teams, especially those operating internationally, vetting and relying on trusted local support is essential. Due to regional regulations, travel teams may need to depend on local teams for two-way radio communication or to establish another instant communication method.

Why Radios Still Matter

For private EP teams, this incident underscores the importance of using the right communication tools for the job. While radios might seem outdated to some, they are one of the most reliable options in high-pressure situations. Radios provide:

• Instant Group Updates: Everyone on the team hears vital updates at the same time, ensuring no one is left out.
• Dependable Redundancy: Radios can work where cell networks fail, adding a crucial safety net in dynamic situations.
• Real-Time Back-and-Forth: Quick, two-way communication helps teams coordinate moves, assess threats, and respond effectively.

While cell phones are valuable backup tools, they shouldn’t be the first choice for urgent information. Texts and calls often lead to fragmented updates that miss key players and depend on network availability, which cannot always be trusted during large events.

Building Effective Communication

To keep communication solid between internal teams and local support, it’s important to put protocols focusing on reliability. Here are some best practices for EP teams:

• Use Multi-Channel Plans: Combine radios for immediate, team-wide communication with cell phones for detailed, secondary conversations.
• Test and Coordinate in Advance: Ensure communication devices are compatible and tested before the event. Set clear frequencies and backup plans.
• Fully Staff Command Centers: Ensure command posts are staffed with people who can monitor and relay information effectively.
• Train and Practice: Regular training should include scenarios like network failures to ensure teams can smoothly switch between tools.
• Accept Radios When Offered: Make it standard for EP teams to use radios from local partners to keep lines of communication open and prevent silos.

Takeaways from the July 13 Assassination Attempt

The July 13 report shows how communication failures can escalate quickly and affect the whole operation. When information is shared only with a few through texts or calls, the team’s ability to respond cohesively suffers. On the other hand, using radios—offered but not accepted in this case—could have enabled more effective coordination.

Private-sector EP teams should learn from these lessons and ensure their communication approach is open and reliable. While cell phones are great as backups, radios are still essential for their dependability, immediate reach, and ability to keep everyone informed. Adopting these best practices can help ensure teams are prepared, protected, and efficient.