What is a 'hot wash' and its purpose in TERT operations?

A 'hot wash' is an immediate feedback session conducted after an incident or operation in TERT (Tactical Emergency Response Team) operations. Its purpose is to facilitate open and honest communication among team members regarding the incident that just occurred. During this session, participants discuss what actions were effective, what challenges arose, and identify areas for improvement.

The hot wash aims to capture insights and lessons learned while the experience is still fresh in everyone's mind, which can significantly enhance the team's performance in future operations. This practice not only promotes accountability but also encourages a culture of continuous improvement within the team, allowing members to reflect collectively on performance and operational effectiveness. This feedback loop is crucial in refining tactics, training, and overall operational readiness.