A panic sequence is a predefined set of actions for damage control during some kind of emergency.

Background

Once the administrative decision to execute a panic sequence is made, all relevant agents are notified to take the appropriate actions. Panic sequences are usually disruptive to normal operation, but help mitigate the damage that could be incurred by continued operation during a crisis.

Examples

• At a public event, when a critical event (maybe kidnapping of a child) occurs, a director of security may instruct that all entrances and exits are to be shut down and all attendees are to remain in their seats until the situation can be resolved.

• In a computer network, when an intrusion is detected that is currently occurring, the network administrator may initiate a panic sequence that isolates the specific target of the intrusion, or if necessary, the entire network. Connectivity and work flow may be interrupted, but the responders will have more time to properly analyze and react to the situation.