What is the first step officers should take according to the Officer Response Time rules?

The first step that officers should take according to the Officer Response Time rules is to perceive the threat. This step is crucial because it involves assessing the situation to understand the nature of the danger they may be facing. By accurately perceiving the threat, officers can gather essential information that informs their subsequent actions and decisions.

Understanding the threat is foundational, as it sets the context for the entire response. Officers must identify not only the immediate dangers but also the environment and other contextual factors at play. This perception allows officers to proceed with the correct strategy and determine the appropriate level of response, whether that involves formulating a strategy to manage the situation or taking direct action. The effectiveness of future steps relies heavily on the accuracy and clarity of the threat assessment made initially.