If a hostage senses a rescue attempt is imminent, what should they do?

When a hostage senses that a rescue attempt is imminent, dropping to the floor and remaining still is the most prudent action to take. This approach serves multiple purposes. First, it minimizes the risk of triggering the captor's panic or aggression, which could lead to an increase in danger for the hostages. By remaining still, the hostages are less likely to draw attention to themselves during the rescue operation, allowing rescuers to assess the situation without any impediments.

Additionally, staying low often provides better protection from stray gunfire or other dangerous situations that can occur during a rescue. It allows rescuers to work more effectively without exposing the hostages to unnecessary risk. In many rescue scenarios, the element of surprise is crucial for law enforcement, and ensuring that hostages are out of the line of fire is essential for a successful operation.

While concepts like running towards the rescuers or trying to escape may seem appealing, they inherently carry risks that could compromise both the hostages' safety and the rescue operation itself. Scream for help could also draw attention from captors in a negative way. Therefore, remaining still is the safest and most sensible choice in this high-stakes situation.