What should officers secure inside the vehicle to avoid secondary impacts in case of a collision?

Officers should focus on securing loose items inside the vehicle to avoid secondary impacts in the event of a collision. Loose items can become projectiles during a crash, posing significant risks not only to the officers inside the vehicle but also to any passengers and other road users. When a vehicle is involved in a sudden stop or collision, these unrestrained items can cause serious injuries by striking individuals or obstructing the operation of crucial vehicle controls.

While emergency equipment and personal belongings are important considerations, they are typically designed to be secured or stored in designated areas to minimize risk. Windows do not play a role in mitigating interior impact hazards in the same way that securing loose items does. Therefore, prioritizing the safe storage of items that could potentially shift or become hazardous is vital for ensuring overall safety in law enforcement operations.