Final answer:
Law enforcement officers at the scene are responsible for informing the shift commander about the location, the number of persons involved, and the nature of a civil disturbance. Bystanders can also play a significant role in reporting incidents. In larger emergencies, the National Guard may be deployed by governors to support local efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
At the scene of a civil disturbance, the first responder, typically a law enforcement officer, is responsible for notifying the shift commander of the location of the incident, the number of persons involved, and the nature of the situation. The officer needs to assess the scene quickly and accurately to ensure that the shift commander receives a comprehensive report that will inform their decisions about necessary resources and strategies. This communication is crucial for determining the appropriate response to restore safety and order effectively.
In scenarios where bystanders or citizens are first to witness incidents, they may take responsibility to report crimes or disturbances to authorities, as in the case of the capture of a murderer after a burglary by neighbors' intervention. This action is essential to prevent the diffusion of responsibility, where individuals assume someone else will report the incident. Proactive community involvement in reporting and alerting authorities can significantly aid in the resolution of such situations.
Moreover, in cases of larger scale or heightened risks such as severe winter weather or civil unrest, governors may activate the National Guard to assist residents and support local agencies in managing the situation.