If you have been involved in a shooting incident, the following steps should be taken but only after you are completely sure there is no longer a threat.

• "Secure the weapon the assailant used. Check yourself for injuries. Make a complete check of the scene; however, don't tamper with any evidence. If the person shot is no longer a threat try to help him. do not talk to him or use abusive language. Don't touch the assailant if he appears to be dead. Don't let anyone else handle any evidence.

• "Call the police as soon as possible. Tell them what has taken place, and your location. Don't give too many details of the incident over the phone. Put your weapon away, keep it out of sight. Innocent people have been shot by the police because they were holding weapons when the officers arrived. Try to spot them first and attract them in a non-threatening manner. At first the police may treat you like a suspect, especially if you have a weapon. Do as you are told. Do not question or argue with them.

• "Call your lawyer. Make no statements to the police or anyone else, until your attorney is present. He should meet you at the scene if possible. Tell him exactly what happened and let him do the talking for you. If you must meet the police by yourself, be sure not to make any statements. Explain to the police politely, but firmly, that you don't want to talk until your attorney arrives. Keep in mind that anything you say can and will, be used against you.

• "When the Paramedics arrive get medical treatment for shock for yourself and any other person involved, whether physically injured or not.

• "Stay away from the news media. Never talk or make any sort of statement to them. Let your attorney make any statements for you. Remember, the news media has No authority. You do not have to talk to them.

• "Legal actions: You are justified in using lethal force only if you 'feared for your life' or that of another person. Don't apologize for defending yourself.
  "Avoid statements such as:

  "I'm sorry I had to shoot"

  "I regret the incident happened"

  
  "Such statements are equated with feelings of guilt. You are remorseful, therefore your actions were inappropriate. Such statements can cost you later on in a court of law.

• "Stress: Persons involved in shooting incidents face a great amount of stress. Psychological problems sometimes appear, and even physical ones such as sleeplessness, headaches, diarrhea and heart problems. These problems are common and affect even trained law enforcement officers. If you encounter any of these problems, seek professional help."

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