What is the most important thing to do before you start a full search incident to arrest?

• A. Obtain a search warrant
• B. Handcuff and put on PPE
• C. Read rights to the arrestee
• D. Wait for supervisor approval

Answer: (B)

The priority in this moment is safety and control before beginning any search. Securing the arrestee with handcuffs establishes immediate control, reducing the risk of sudden movements, resistance, or the arrestee going for a weapon. Wearing PPE adds a protective layer for you and others by reducing exposure to bodily fluids or other hazards that can come up during a search. Together, these steps create a safer, more controlled environment to perform the search properly.

Other actions aren’t as critical at this specific moment. A search warrant isn’t required for a search incident to arrest, which is why waiting on a warrant isn’t the immediate priority. Reading rights concerns interrogation, not the safety-critical preparation for a search. Waiting for supervisor approval can delay essential safety actions, whereas securing the arrestee and donning PPE should come first.