In a crisis, calling 9-1-1 is automatic. The next call requires a little more thought

One rarely hears inspiring stories of objectivity during a crisis. Frankly, that's not the general temperament of human nature. We are not wired for calm, objective reaction to unexpected stress. Danger and disaster pump humans full of adrenalin and set off the fight or flight response. These survival instincts are as old as life itself.

Understanding human nature, it only makes sense to bring in people trained and disciplined in objective scientific analysis as quickly as possible when disaster strikes. S-E-A professionals make no pretense at being first responders, neither do you.

The inevitable questions that arise after a catastrophe do cross your desk soon enough. Restoring order and normalcy requires real answers to fend off wild speculation, finger pointing and attempted profiteering.

Answers based on expertise in forensic engineering and scientific methodologies provide the informational basis for proper recovery, restoration and restitution, as well as the mitigation of future risk.

And yes, this kind of help is available with the right phone call.

To date, no one has come up with an Experience App.

There is a wild proliferation of new scientific tools and technology out there and S-E-A has many of them. However, without the years of experience and rigid scientific discipline needed to know how and when to apply these new technologies, they simply run up costs and are likely to generate reams of data and more questions than answers.

Forensic excellence is in the approach and utilization of the technology. The approach must be based on sound methodology and interpretation guided by a significant depth of experience gained in the field and in the lab. Each event is unique, but experience in multiple disciplines helps cut-to-the-chase without jumping to conclusions.

There is nothing wrong with new technologies or even young technicians and engineers; as long as they are backed-up by companies with years of experience and accumulated real world expertise.

Get it right the first time, and you won't end up paying for the second and third time.

In cases both large and small, the rules are the same. Speed, accuracy and insight based on independent and objective analysis generate real answers. The sooner you have real answers, the sooner you will be able to make the kind of decisions you need to make during, and after, a crisis. These decisions will have long lasting implications for you, your customers and your company's future. This is not the time to cut corners.

People like yourself, who make decisions in the aftermath of disasters large and small, rarely make the headlines. But, the impact of the decisions made can make a huge difference in how the damage is contained and in the reestablishment of order going forward.

Give yourself every chance to make these decisions well. Make the right call.

Call S-E-A at 800-782-6851 for more information, or visit www.SEAlimited.com

A powerful resource for more nearly 50 years, S-E-A offers multi-disciplined forensic engineering, fire investigations and failure analysis to clients. Our full-time staff consists of mechanical, biomechanical, biomedical, electrical, metallurgical and civil engineers, fire investigators, industrial hygienists, environmental/health & safety professionals, and visualization specialists. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, S-E-A employs 270 associates in 11 offices nationwide.

Jason Baker is CEO of S-E-A.