TIP volunteers, who provide their own transportation to crisis scenes at any hour, provide crisis counseling and practical help temporarily until ongoing support systems begin to assist the victim. Official policy prohibits officers from making referrals to TIP in certain criminal cases likely to involve prosecution and followup in the court system. Such victims are assisted by a specialized victim aid program that provides help throughout case processing. TIP volunteers must complete a basic 6-week training program and participate in continuing education. Volunteers are limited to a single followup call. Since beginning in January 1985, volunteers have responded to 180 calls. Although the program has not been formally evaluated, it has been praised by users. Suggestions are offered for starting a TIP program, and a sample debriefing format between the responding professional and the volunteer prior to victim contact with the volunteer is provided.