High Risk & Shots fired situations are very different, none of them are the same which means a lot of officer discretion is required. However, the below are common rules which should remain in thought at all times.

• If the K-9 is in the vehicle at the time of escalation to shots fired they should remain there for the rest of the situation for their own safety.

• For safety, if the K-9 is out in a potentially dangerous situation the K-9 officer must ensure the safety of his/her animal and protect it as much as possible.

• At no time should a K-9 be set on a suspect that is known to be armed with a firearm.

• Consider your partner’s safety at all times. Leave him/her in the vehicle until you are confident that it is safe for them to exit and do their job safely.

• If there is no other option at all, you may pursue with your canine to take down the suspect, if the suspect attempts to attack the canine with a weapon lethal force will be authorized. You must be mindful of crossfire and should not take a shot if there is a possibility of injuring your dog. Your canine may struggle to subdue an armed suspect who is determined for more than a few seconds so you must follow closely behind and be prepared to secure the suspect and eradicate the threat.

Note: Willfully sending a canine into a dangerous situation will result in disciplinary action. Their life is to be valued as your own and they are defenseless against a bladed weapon or a firearm.