MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What should an officer do first upon receiving a report of a shooting?

1. Secure the area

2. Assist the injured

3. Interview witnesses

4. Chase the suspect

The correct answer is: Assist the injured

When an officer receives a report of a shooting, the priority is to assist the injured. The immediate concern in any critical incident involving injury is to ensure that those who are hurt receive medical attention as quickly as possible. By providing aid to the injured, the officer not only addresses the urgent needs of those affected but also helps to stabilize the situation. While other actions such as securing the area, interviewing witnesses, and potentially pursuing a suspect are important elements of the response to a shooting, they become secondary to the preservation of life. Injuries sustained during a shooting can be severe and may require immediate first aid or medical intervention. Therefore, the officer's first action should be to evaluate the scene, assess the condition of any victims, and provide necessary assistance until medical personnel arrive. In addition, attending to the injured may also aid in preventing further chaos at the scene, allowing the officer to maintain a degree of control while ensuring that the most critical needs are met first. This approach demonstrates an officer's commitment to public safety and the well-being of individuals within the community they serve.