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When assigned to pick up a subject with a mental disorder, what is the best first step to take?

  1. Knock, announce, and explain your purpose

  2. Go in hard and fast

  3. Use the minimum force required

The correct answer is: Knock, announce, and explain your purpose

The best first step when assigned to pick up a subject with a mental disorder is to knock, announce, and explain your purpose. This approach is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, individuals with mental disorders may already be experiencing high levels of anxiety or paranoia. By knocking and announcing your presence, you provide a level of transparency and assurance. This can help to de-escalate any potential tensions before they arise. Secondly, explaining your purpose facilitates communication and helps the subject understand why you are there. This can foster cooperation and minimize the risk of the individual feeling threatened, which could lead to a more tranquil interaction. Establishing a calm and communicative approach is fundamental to ensuring safety for both the officers involved and the subject. Engaging with the person respectfully can help to create a more positive outcome and potentially reduce the need for any physical intervention.