Think back to the last time you and a group of friends tried to decide where to eat. You asked, “What are you hungry for?” or “Where do you want to go?” Do you remember the ten-minute debate that ate away at your lunch break? Why is it so hard to make a simple decision?
Decisions in High-Stakes Environments
A couple of years ago, I worked with Brian Heinz of Chemical Safety Training at the Blue Lake Rancheria Fire Department in Humboldt County, California. Our students, from the Humboldt Bay Fire Authority, Crescent City Fire, and health officials from Humboldt and Del Norte Counties, participated in a hands-on exercise simulating a train derailment involving two hazardous chemicals:
- Sulfur dioxide, toxic, corrosive gas, and
- Toluene diisocyanate, a poisonous chemical
Exposure to these chemicals could be deadly, so effective decision-making was critical.
The Decision-Making Process in Action
The scenario required rapid yet well-informed decisions. The Haz Mat Group went to work:
- Two individuals researched the chemicals hazards and potential reactions.
- Three others donned chemical protective clothing and prepared for entry while the Decontamination Team prepared a corridor to remove any chemicals that may be on the Entry Teams suits.
- The Hazardous Materials Group Supervisor oversaw the operation, coordinating with the incident commander and assistant safety officer to sign off on the site safety plan.
These decisions didn’t happen in a vacuum. They were based on training, experience, and situational awareness. Unlike other teams that have suffered from paralysis by analysis, this group acted efficiently and professionally. Why? Because each person was prepared and confident in their abilities.
How Can You Be a Successful Decision-Maker?
Success in decision-making begins with preparation. Here’s how you can improve:
✔ Become a student of your profession: observe, ask questions, and learn from others.
✔ Study real-world scenarios to build confidence in high-pressure situations.
✔ Trust your training and experience to avoid unnecessary delays.
The next time you’re out with a group and it’s lunchtime—be the one who makes the decision. Start small, build confidence, and strengthen your decision-making skills.
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