Pre-Incident Indicators: The Early Warning System for Public Safety

At Preventative Measures Investigations (PMI), one of our most vital responsibilities is recognizing threats before they become actions. Central to that mission is our structured identification and analysis of Pre-Incident Indicators, also known as PINs. These are observable behaviors or environmental cues that, when correctly interpreted, can serve as early warnings of pending violence or criminal activity.

Pre-Incident Indicators are not rooted in guesswork or speculation. They are grounded in years of research and validated by law enforcement, threat assessment professionals, and national security agencies. These indicators are often exhibited days, weeks, or even months before an incident occurs. The challenge lies in identifying them early enough and interpreting them correctly within the broader context of the individual's environment and history.

At PMI, we specialize in observing and analyzing these patterns in both public and private settings. Common PINs include behaviors such as fixation on violence or weapons, stalking, sudden behavioral shifts, expressions of grievance, and leakage of intent through conversations, writings, or digital footprints. In isolation, any one of these may seem benign. However, when placed into a structured threat assessment framework, patterns often emerge that indicate a trajectory toward violence or disruption.

Our investigative and intelligence teams use a blend of behavioral science, open-source intelligence, and field data to detect these warning signs. We apply methodologies supported by leading agencies like the U.S. Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security. Whether the situation involves a workplace, school, religious institution, or private setting, PMI evaluates PINs to help prevent escalation.

What makes our approach unique is that we do not just observe the indicators—we act. PMI provides tailored intervention strategies based on threat level, subject behavior, and surrounding circumstances. These may include coordinated responses with law enforcement, direct engagement with the subject, mental health referrals, or enhanced monitoring protocols. The objective is always the same: mitigate risk, protect lives, and prevent the incident before it occurs.

Pre-Incident Indicators are the red flags before the crisis. They are the observable footprints of intent. At PMI, we are trained to see them, analyze them, and most importantly, respond to them. The earlier the detection, the greater the opportunity for intervention.

When others ask how something could have been prevented, PMI is already working on the answer.