Which action should be avoided when trying to regain control of a crowd?

Using physical force unnecessarily is a critical action to be avoided when trying to regain control of a crowd because it can escalate tensions rather than mitigate them. Employing force can provoke fear, anger, and resistance among the crowd, leading to potentially dangerous situations for both the individuals involved and bystanders. In a crowded environment, the use of force often undermines the authority of security personnel or law enforcement and can compromise their ability to manage the situation effectively. Instead, peaceful and communicative strategies are favored, as they encourage cooperation and can lead to a more stable and controlled environment. Communicating calmly, identifying any influencers or ringleaders, and making public addresses are methods aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding, which are essential for de-escalating conflicts and restoring order in a crowd.