How many officers are recommended to clear a building?

Clearing a building is a critical part of law enforcement operations, particularly in situations involving potential threats such as active shooter scenarios or hostage situations. It is recommended that a minimum of two officers be assigned to this task for several reasons.

Having at least two officers allows for effective communication and support between them, reducing the risk of injury. This team approach facilitates more comprehensive coverage of the area being cleared, as one officer can watch the other’s back and provide assistance if needed. Additionally, it enhances tactical options; two officers can coordinate maneuvers, such as one officer entering a room while the other secures the perimeter or advances as backup.

This recommendation is grounded in the concepts of officer safety and operational effectiveness. In contrast, sending only one officer to clear a building increases the risk of that officer encountering a threat without immediate support. Increasing the number of officers further, such as to three or four, may enhance security and backup but is generally considered unnecessary for the initial entry and swift assessment of the area unless circumstances dictate a higher threat level or complexity.