If a subject is suspected to be under illicit substances affecting coordination, which steps should you take?

If a subject is suspected to be under illicit substances affecting coordination, which steps should you take?

• A. Move in to gain control quickly.
• B. Increase distance, use verbal commands and de-escalation, request backup, and avoiding unnecessary deployment; ensure safety.
• C. Immediately deploy the device without backup.
• D. Ignore safety considerations and proceed with force.

Answer: (B)

Safety first in a scenario where someone may be under substances that affect coordination: give yourself space, communicate clearly, and call for backup. Increasing distance reduces the chance of sudden, uncontrolled movements catching you off guard, and it provides a safer buffer if the person does become physically reactive. Verbal commands and de-escalation give the person a chance to comply or disengage without force, and they help you assess their state more accurately while keeping the situation calm. Requesting backup brings additional support to manage the scene, cover angles, and assist if medical needs arise, which is especially important when impairment makes behavior unpredictable. Avoid deploying tools or force unless absolutely necessary and authorized by policy, because escalation increases the risk of harm to the individual and to you. Throughout, prioritize safety for everyone, monitor the person's condition for signs of distress or medical emergency, and be ready to adjust your plan as the situation evolves.

Safety first in a scenario where someone may be under substances that affect coordination: give yourself space, communicate clearly, and call for backup. Increasing distance reduces the chance of sudden, uncontrolled movements catching you off guard, and it provides a safer buffer if the person does become physically reactive. Verbal commands and de-escalation give the person a chance to comply or disengage without force, and they help you assess their state more accurately while keeping the situation calm. Requesting backup brings additional support to manage the scene, cover angles, and assist if medical needs arise, which is especially important when impairment makes behavior unpredictable. Avoid deploying tools or force unless absolutely necessary and authorized by policy, because escalation increases the risk of harm to the individual and to you. Throughout, prioritize safety for everyone, monitor the person's condition for signs of distress or medical emergency, and be ready to adjust your plan as the situation evolves.