How should you position defensive items during an interaction?

The most effective positioning of defensive items during an interaction is to keep them far out of reach of the other person. This approach minimizes the opportunity for the individual you are interacting with to access those items, which can contribute to a safer environment. Keeping defensive items out of reach reduces the risk of escalation and potential physical confrontations, as the individual cannot easily grab or use those items against an officer.

Positioning items in this manner emphasizes control of the situation, allowing the officer to maintain a level of safety while still being prepared should the need arise. It encourages a more peaceable interaction, as it suggests that the officer is not in a posture of immediate threat to the other person. This tactic is essential in ensuring that officers retain the upper hand in potentially volatile situations while remaining professional and composed.