What should an officer do when they need to investigate a person down?

When an officer encounters a situation involving a person down, the best course of action is to investigate the situation. This involves assessing the circumstances around the individual, determining if they are in need of medical assistance, and understanding the context of why the person is on the ground. This investigative approach is crucial for ensuring the safety of both the individual and the officer, as well as for collecting important information that can guide further actions.

Investigating the situation allows the officer to gather vital information that can help in making decisions about calling for medical support, determining if a crime has occurred, or identifying any potential threats in the immediate environment. By taking this step first, the officer can effectively address the person’s needs and the situation at hand before proceeding with any additional actions like contacting dispatch or securing the area.

The other options, while potentially valuable in a larger context, are steps that typically follow the initial investigation of the situation. Thus, taking the time to assess the condition and circumstances of the person down is essential for a responsible and effective response.