What is an inappropriate practice regarding handcuffs to avoid positional asphyxia?

Connecting handcuffs to the legs is inappropriate because it can increase the risk of positional asphyxia. Positional asphyxia occurs when a person's body position prevents them from being able to breathe adequately. When handcuffs are attached to the legs, they may restrict movement and cause an individual to adopt a harmful position that compromises their ability to breathe. Additionally, leg restraints can result in a range of detrimental postures, especially if the individual is also in a seated or prone position, which is often associated with increased asphyxia risk.

In contrast, using double-locking handcuffs is a technique designed to enhance the safety and effectiveness of restraint. It prevents the handcuffs from tightening further, which can help to maintain circulation and reduce discomfort. Applying handcuffs to a person sitting down or restraining the hands in front of the body can also be considered safer practices, as these positions allow for more natural breathing and less risk of asphyxia compared to being restrained with cuffs connected to the legs.