When is it appropriate to apply double lock handcuffs?

Applying double lock handcuffs is a procedure that enhances officer safety and control over a subject. It is particularly appropriate when it is tactically safe to do so. This means that the environment and situation have been assessed to ensure that there are no immediate threats, allowing officers to securely handcuff a subject without compromising their safety or that of others.

In scenarios that might be volatile or unpredictable, such as during a violent encounter, the timing and method of handcuffing must be carefully considered. While it’s important to secure a subject promptly, doing so under conditions that are not tactically safe could lead to complications for the officer and the subject.

The practice of double locking handcuffs helps prevent unintentional tightening, which could escalate tensions and lead to injury. Therefore, assessing the tactical landscape before proceeding with handcuffing is essential for maintaining control and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

Simply putting on handcuffs whenever possible, or even before approaching the subject, ignores the need for a tactically sound assessment, which could lead to unnecessary risks. Hence, the emphasis on tactical safety in choosing to apply double lock handcuffs is paramount.