In what scenario is it critical to adjust your reactionary gap?

Adjusting the reactionary gap is crucial when you lose sight of the subject's hands because hands are often considered the most important part of a person's body with respect to their potential to pose a threat. When you cannot see a subject's hands, you lose vital information about their intentions and possible actions. The hands can be used to grab weapons or other objects that can cause harm, making the inability to see them a significant safety concern.

In situations where the subject is verbally compliant, the area seems calm, or even when handling multiple subjects, the dynamics of the encounter may still remain relatively stable. However, if the subject's hands are out of view, it dramatically increases the risk of an unexpected and possibly violent escalation, necessitating a reassessment of personal safety and the appropriate reactionary gap. This principle is rooted in maintaining situational awareness and ensuring that officers are prepared for any potential threats.