In a post-incident report, which of the following best describes witness statements?

• A. Direct quotes, dates and times, and observed facts
• B. They should be collected promptly and include direct quotes or factual observations
• C. Personal opinions about which agency is at fault
• D. Speculation about future actions

Answer: (B)

Witness statements in a post-incident report should be collected promptly and include direct quotes or factual observations. Collecting them quickly helps preserve memory accuracy, ensuring details like exact wording, dates, times, locations, and observed events aren’t lost or distorted. Direct quotes capture the witness’s exact language, while factual observations provide objective details without adding interpretation. Personal opinions about fault or speculation about future actions aren’t part of witness statements and should be documented separately or avoided in this section.