Incident Communications

Written by: 

Ted Whyte

Published Date: 

11 November 2025

Communicating with the Emergency Services

Emergency Service Communication in Incidents

In the event of an emergency at a public venue or large-scale event, quick and clear communication with emergency services is critical. Whether it’s a medical emergency, fire, security threat, or major disruption, the ability to provide responders with accurate, structured information can make all the difference in managing the situation effectively. One of the most widely used reporting frameworks in the UK and internationally is ETHANE—a structured way to relay key details to emergency responders.

What is ETHANE?

ETHANE is an internationally recognised mnemonic used to report major incidents. It ensures that first responders, security teams, and event staff provide emergency services with a consistent and clear assessment of the situation.

ETHANE

E – Exact Location

  • Provide the precise location of the incident, including:
    • Venue name and address
    • Specific area (e.g., Main Entrance, Stand B, VIP Section)
    • Nearby landmarks to assist emergency responders

🔹 T – Type of Incident

  • What is happening? Describe the nature of the emergency:
    • Fire
    • Suspicious package or security threat
    • Crowd disturbance
    • Medical emergency
    • Structural failure or hazardous material incident

🔹 H – Hazards Present

  • Identify any immediate dangers to responders or the public:
    • Fire, smoke, or gas leaks
    • Weapons or potential attackers
    • Unstable structures or falling debris
    • Biohazards or electrical risks

🔹 A – Access Routes

  • Inform responders of the best access points and any restrictions:
    • Roads, gates, or entrances that are open or blocked
    • Recommended routes for emergency vehicles
    • Alternative access points if the main ones are compromised

🔹 N – Number of Casualties

  • Give an estimated number of people affected:
    • Injured individuals (minor vs. serious)
    • People requiring evacuation
    • Fatalities (if known)

🔹 E – Emergency Services Required

  • Specify which services are needed on-site:
    • Ambulance / Paramedics
    • Police (e.g., for crowd control or security threats)
    • Fire and Rescue (e.g., for fires, gas leaks, or structural concerns)
    • Specialist units (e.g., bomb disposal, hazardous materials team)

Why ETHANE Matters for Venues & Events:

For event organisers, security teams, and venue staff, using ETHANE ensures that emergency services receive clear, structured, and useful information immediately – eliminating confusion and delays. In fast-moving, high-pressure situations, following this framework helps:

✔ Speed up response times and improve coordination
✔ Ensure accurate information is relayed, avoiding miscommunication
✔ Reduce risk to responders by highlighting hazards and safe access points
✔ Provide a standardized method of communication across all staff and emergency teams

Conclusion

At Protected Spaces, we help venues and event organizers prepare for emergencies by training staff on effective incident communication, including ETHANE. Our tailored microlearning modules, tabletop exercises, and real-time drills ensure that staff can quickly and confidently relay vital information when every second counts.

Don’t wait until an emergency happens – ensure your team is ready. Contact Protected Spaces today to develop a robust incident response plan and give your staff the tools they need to communicate effectively in a crisis.

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About the Author

Ted Whyte has over 10 years of experience working with a variety of public venues and events across the UK and internationally. Specialising in protective security and incident response, Ted has helped organizations develop effective training programs that enhance staff preparedness and ensure smooth operations in high-pressure environments. His expertise lies in tailoring security training strategies to the unique challenges of each venue or event, ensuring both safety and exceptional guest experiences.