Maintaining Officer Safety

Situational awareness protects the officer as well as the client. Officers should avoid becoming isolated, distracted, or unaware of escape routes.

Officer safety practices include:

• Keep a safe reactionary distance.
• Do not allow unknown persons to walk behind you unnoticed.
• Know exits and escape routes.
• Keep communication equipment available.
• Avoid entering dangerous areas alone when unsafe.
• Request backup when needed.
• Do not escalate situations unnecessarily.
• Maintain visibility when appropriate.