Safety always needs to remain a priority for on the job cops. But, it is easy to forget to put your safety first while dealing with a crisis situation. Remember, if your safety is secured, you are in a better position to deal with civilians and provide for their safety as well. When dealing with a situation along a road, make sure that you do the following:
- Use your warning lights – even in the daylight, it’s a great idea to turn the flashing lights on your squad car on. The motion and colors of the light will attract the attention of drivers approaching on the road, and give them ample notice to give you some space.
- Pull to the shoulder – always try and pull your vehicle over to the shoulder of the road. Even when trying to make yourself visible, blocking a lane impedes traffic and creates a situation that could be unsafe. It may not always be possible to move to the shoulder, but try to create those opportunities.
- Wear reflective vests – when working on the side of the road late at night, use high visibility vests so you aren’t just relying on the reflection of your uniform.
- Use flares – to mark off an area that drivers should avoid, use highway flares.