MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

Where is the best place to patrol on foot at night?

1. Next to a curb for better observation

2. Next to a building for better cover

3. Next to a building, or next to a curb. Both are correct.

4. On an open street for visibility

The correct answer is: Next to a building for better cover

Patrolling on foot at night requires careful consideration of safety and effectiveness. The best place to patrol next to a building provides several tactical advantages. Buildings offer concealment, allowing an officer to remain less visible to potential threats or individuals who may wish to avoid detection. This proximity also allows officers to utilize the building's structure to observe and assess their surroundings without drawing attention to themselves. Additionally, being near a building can provide strategic cover from any potential danger, enabling officers to respond more effectively in case of an incident. This positioning helps in maintaining a balance between visibility and safety during nighttime patrols. While observing from a curb might enhance visibility and allow for a clearer view of open areas, it often lacks the protective advantages that come with being near structures. Therefore, the choice to patrol next to a building accurately encapsulates the priority of safety and cover during night operations.