Law enforcement agencies across the United States are seeing the value in having a specialized hostage negotiation vehicle. These vehicles are solely designed to give negotiators and agencies the resources they need to handle high-stakes situations involving hostages or individuals in crisis.
Below, we explain what a hostage negotiation vehicle, also known as a crisis negotiation vehicle, is and highlight four key features every vehicle should include. From command centers to seamless communication systems, surveillance equipment, and storage for tactical supplies, each feature plays a key role in helping negotiators resolve any crisis as fast and safely as possible.
What Is a Hostage Negotiation Vehicle?
A hostage or crisis negotiation vehicle is a first response unit equipped with the equipment, technology, and resources needed for negotiators to communicate, gather information, and coordinate tactical responses.
The vehicle provides a secure and controlled environment where negotiators can engage with individuals involved in the crisis, whether they are hostages, perpetrators, or individuals in distress. Hostage and crisis negotiation vehicles are also equipped to handle other crisis scenarios where hostages are not involved, such as barricaded suspects, suicidal individuals, or armed standoffs.
What Are the 4 Key Features to Include on a Hostage Negotiation Vehicle?
1) Negotiation and Command Center
Police officers, firefighters, SWAT teams, and EMTs may all be on a crisis scene at one time, making it loud and chaotic. That's why having a quiet negotiation and command center is essential in any hostage negotiation vehicle. Amidst all the hustle and bustle and stressful environment, having a calm and peaceful space where negotiators can work is crucial for resolving the situation safely.
The command center in a hostage or crisis negotiation vehicle should include the following features:
- Advanced communication technology for real-time information gathering and coordination of rescue operations, which helps negotiators respond swiftly and effectively to evolving situations.
- Soundproof design that shields negotiators from external distractions and helps maintain focus and confidentiality.
- A functional and comfortable environment that provides ergonomic seating, adequate workspace, and amenities, including a lavatory, microwave, coffeemaker, and refrigerator, to support lengthy and emotionally draining crisis negotiations.
Frontline Communications is here to deliver a hostage negotiation vehicle you can rely on to perform during any crisis. Check out our recent deliveries!
2) Seamless Communication Systems
Hostage negotiation vehicles are equipped with advanced communication systems that integrate multiple channels, including radio, satellite, and cellular networks. Having a reliable line of communication between negotiators inside the command center and law enforcement teams on the outside allows both parties to work together to react quickly to any complex and rapidly evolving crisis situation.
A dependable power supply like Frontline’s patented VIP® Power System offers a quieter, safer, and more reliable alternative to conventional gas generators, which are noisy and disruptive. The VIP® Power System ensures continuous and seamless communication by providing a stable power source, preventing interruptions that could hinder critical negotiations and coordination efforts during high-stakes situations.
A hostage negotiation vehicle should also have a durable “throw phone,” which allows negotiators to establish direct contact with hostages or perpetrators. These phones also have a hidden camera to help assess the threat and situation, which brings us to our next key feature of any hostage negotiation vehicle.
3) Surveillance Equipment and Cameras
When negotiating in a crisis or hostage situation, having a clear understanding of the environment is important for everyone’s safety. Hostage negotiation vehicles, like other emergency response vehicles, can come fitted with different types of cameras, including backup, perimeter, and mast top cameras. These cameras are all designed to give the negotiation team real-time situational awareness of their surroundings.
A night vision and thermal imaging camera that detects heat signatures is an important feature to add to any hostage negotiation vehicle. This camera allows negotiators and officers to identify threats, objects, or situations that may not be visible to the naked eye. For instance, thermal imagery technology can help locate individuals hiding or in distress.
4) Storage for Tactical Equipment and Supplies
Storage compartments in hostage negotiation vehicles are designed to accommodate a variety of tactical equipment and supplies, allowing negotiators to tailor their response and approach based on the specific demands of each situation.
Whether it's specialized tools for breaching or medical supplies for treating injuries, the storage space on a hostage negotiation vehicle is designed to meet evolving needs. From firearms and non-lethal weapons to first aid kits and communication devices, every item is strategically stored to maximize efficiency during a high-pressure crisis.
Customizable Hostage Negotiation Vehicles for Every Need
At Frontline Communications, we can design a hostage negotiation vehicle to meet a wide range of sizes and specifications, tailored to the unique needs of any situation. These vehicles can come in smaller packages, such as Sprinter or Ford Transit vans, specifically designed for the sole purpose of crisis negotiation. Alternatively, they can be integrated into larger, full-sized units that include a dedicated CNV (Crisis Negotiation Vehicle) element—a closed-off room dedicated to negotiations—while also serving as multi-purpose assets for various first-response needs.
Why Choose Frontline Communications?
Frontline Communications has over 30 years of experience designing and manufacturing first-response vehicles. The features above are just a starting point to designing and creating the best hostage or crisis negotiation vehicle for your agency’s needs. No matter what size vehicle you need or what unique features you’re looking for, we are here to deliver a vehicle ready to perform during any crisis.
At Frontline, we understand these types of vehicles are an investment. We always integrate the most up-to-date technology to make future technology refreshes possible, which prolongs your investment and ensures your vehicle always performs at its best. We also offer life-long 24/7 service and support, making us your trusted partner now and well into the future.
Want to know more about hostage negotiation vehicles? Contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.
