Which action is recommended when a bystander provides information during a 900 code?

• A. Immediately relay their information without verification
• B. Accept only if the bystander is an officer
• C. Gather essential details, assess credibility, and verify information with witnesses
• D. Disregard if you cannot verify on the scene

Answer: (C)

When a bystander offers information during a 900 code, the best approach is to collect essential details, assess credibility, and verify the information with witnesses. Start by pulling out specific facts the bystander can reliably provide: exact location, time, any descriptions of people or vehicles (appearance, clothing, license plates if possible), direction of travel, and any actions observed. Then evaluate how credible the account seems by checking for consistency with what you already know, considering factors like the bystander’s vantage point, stress level, potential biases, and memory limitations. Finally, corroborate the details with other witnesses or on-scene evidence before acting on them or broadcasting them. This helps prevent spreading rumors or false leads, ensures information is actionable, and supports a safer, more effective response. Avoid relaying unverified information, and don’t rely on a bystander’s status alone to determine its usefulness; if you can’t verify immediately, prioritize verification rather than dissemination.