Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) RADIO Practice Exam

What is the appropriate response if a deputy requests help urgently?

1. Ignore until shift change

2. Confirm availability and respond

3. Send only backup units

4. Notify dispatch to find out more

The correct answer is: Confirm availability and respond

When a deputy requests help urgently, the most appropriate response is to confirm availability and respond. This option emphasizes the importance of teamwork and prompt action in critical situations, as law enforcement often relies on mutual support to manage emergencies effectively. By confirming availability, you ensure that you are acknowledging the request for assistance, which can foster better communication and coordination among units on the scene. Responding promptly can be critical in urgent situations where timing can significantly affect the outcome, such as dealing with an ongoing crime, a suspect in flight, or an officer in distress. Additionally, this approach aligns with the principles of emergency response, which prioritize the safety of both officers and the public. In contrast, other options such as ignoring the request until shift change or only sending backup units may delay assistance or leave the requesting deputy without necessary support. Notifying dispatch to find out more, while it might seem prudent, could also waste valuable time when an immediate response is required. Thus, confirming availability and responding is the most effective course of action in this scenario.