What best defines early warning signs in officer safety?

• A. A plan to escape custody.
• B. Signals or certain behaviors provided by the subject that are often associated with a high level of danger to officers.
• C. A standard procedure for booking.
• D. A routine check-in call.

Answer: (B)

Early warning signs are signals or behaviors demonstrated by a subject that hint at an elevated risk of violence toward officers. These cues come from the person being dealt with and are often linked to a high level of danger, prompting officers to stay alert, maintain distance, call for backup, or use de-escalation when possible. Examples include verbal threats, aggressive or sudden mood changes, noncompliance, intimidating posture, weapon concealment, or actions that invade personal space in a threatening way. Recognizing these cues is key to proactive safety rather than focusing on administrative procedures. The other options describe procedures or plans rather than warning indicators from the subject, so they don’t capture what these signs are meant to convey.