What action should officers try to avoid during combat?

Going to the ground should be avoided by officers during combat because it often puts them in a vulnerable position. On the ground, an officer's ability to maneuver and maintain control is significantly reduced, which can make them more susceptible to further attacks. Additionally, grappling or fighting on the ground limits the officer’s ability to utilize their training and tools effectively, preventing them from maintaining an advantageous stance against an assailant. Staying upright allows for better mobility, the potential to disengage, and the ability to assess the situation and react appropriately.

In contrast, utilizing restraint can help control a suspect safely, engaging in negotiation can defuse potentially violent situations without physical confrontation, and flanking an opponent can provide tactical advantages by allowing an officer to attack from a position that is harder for the opponent to defend against. Each of these strategies serves to maintain safety and control in potentially dangerous encounters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a standing position during combat.