MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

While sitting in your patrol vehicle under fire, where should you take cover?

1. Behind the bumper of your vehicle

2. Behind the engine block (dashboard)

3. Behind the door of your patrol vehicle

4. Outside the vehicle, behind a tree

The correct answer is: Behind the engine block (dashboard)

Taking cover behind the engine block of your patrol vehicle is the most effective choice when under fire due to the engine block's substantial mass compared to other parts of the vehicle. The engine block provides a greater level of ballistic protection, as it is composed of dense materials that can effectively stop or deflect bullets. When in a situation where shots are being fired, the objective is to minimize exposure while maximizing cover. The engine block’s location typically allows the officer to still maintain a position from which they can view the threats and potentially return fire, while also reducing vulnerability. Options such as the bumper or the door provide less coverage against incoming rounds. The bumper, being mostly plastic or lightweight material, is unlikely to stop bullets. Meanwhile, while the door may offer some protection, it is not as robust as the engine block and can oftentimes be penetrated by higher-caliber rounds. Taking cover outside the vehicle, such as behind a tree, could expose individuals unnecessarily unless the tree is substantial enough to deflect bullets effectively. This option may also limit visibility and access to the patrol vehicle’s resources. Overall, taking cover behind the engine block ensures that the officer is in the safest possible position while still being able to respond to a threat.