Upon arriving at the scene of an armed subject situation, what should be your first action?

The first action upon arriving at the scene of an armed subject situation should be to look for good cover. This is crucial because in any potentially dangerous situation involving an armed individual, the officer's safety must be the top priority. Finding cover allows an officer to protect themselves from potential gunfire and to plan the next steps safely.

Establishing cover not only enhances an officer's personal safety but also provides a strategic advantage for any necessary response, whether it's negotiation or engagement with the subject. Good cover may include vehicles, buildings, or natural terrain that can provide protection.

Choosing to engage the suspect without first securing cover would place the officer at significant risk. Similarly, while communication with dispatch and checking for witnesses are important actions, they should not take precedence over securing a safe position in a threatening encounter. Ensuring safety first allows officers to make informed decisions and respond effectively to the situation at hand.