After confirming the validity of a hostage barricade call, what should an officer do next?

Establishing an outer and inner perimeter is an essential step following the confirmation of a hostage barricade situation. This action serves multiple purposes: it secures the area to control movement and minimize risks to the public, victims, and responding officers. The outer perimeter helps in managing traffic and keeping bystanders at a safe distance, while the inner perimeter provides a controlled space for law enforcement operations and tactical assessment.

This perimeter setup allows officers to prepare for further actions, such as negotiation or tactical response, without risking the safety of bystanders or complicating the situation further. While informing a supervisor, establishing communication with the suspect, and potentially calling for SWAT are important tactics in managing the situation, the immediate priority upon confirmation of a barricade is to establish control through perimeter security. This foundational step ensures that all subsequent actions can be taken with a higher degree of safety and efficiency.