What should an officer do before reaching into clothing for unknown objects?

• A. Announce a search
• B. Obtain consent
• C. Feel and look
• D. Visual inspection only

Answer: (C)

Before reaching into clothing for unknown objects, prioritize safety by feel and look. Visually inspect for any bulges, movement, or signs of a weapon, and use a careful, open-handed palpation to feel the outer clothing. This tactile check helps you detect concealed items and assess what you’re about to grasp, reducing the risk of surprise or harm if a weapon or dangerous object is present. Announcing a search or obtaining consent are important in other contexts, but they don’t address the immediate safety precaution of verifying what could be concealed before making contact. Visual inspection alone can miss hidden items, so combining what you see with a gentle feel gives you better information and control before you reach in.