What should you do if you encounter a police officer during an Active Threat situation?

In an Active Threat situation, the primary objective is to ensure safety and effective communication with law enforcement. Communicating clearly and keeping your hands visible is crucial because it shows that you are not a threat and are cooperating fully with the responding officers. This visibility helps officers quickly ascertain that you are not involved in the threat, allowing them to focus on their primary duties of managing the situation and ensuring public safety.

Maintaining a calm demeanor and clear communication can facilitate a quicker resolution and help officers gauge the situation effectively. Being cooperative and avoiding sudden movements is essential, as officers responding to a potentially dangerous situation may be on high alert and trained to respond to threats immediately.

In contrast, hiding until backup arrives may lead to uncertainty regarding your intentions; arguing could escalate tensions; and running in the opposite direction might raise suspicion, potentially putting you at greater risk. Staying visible and communicating effectively helps to mitigate these risks, allowing for a safer interaction with law enforcement.