After firing a weapon at a known threat, what should an officer do first?

After an officer has discharged a weapon at a known threat, the first priority is to ensure that they are in a safe and controlled position to assess the situation. By dropping the gun to sights in a ready position, the officer maintains a level of readiness while being prepared for any further developments.

This action allows the officer to stabilize their response and evaluate the surrounding environment, ensuring they can react appropriately to any ongoing threats or changes in the situation. It emphasizes safety by managing the firearm in a way that reduces the risk of accidental discharge while also keeping the weapon accessible if necessary.

In contrast, seeking additional firepower, requesting a tactical team, or immediately pursuing the target may not be the best initial actions since they could introduce additional risks or create chaos in an already tense situation. Prioritizing a controlled stance with the firearm enables clarity of thought and action in the moment following a potentially dangerous encounter.