Should I call the Police before the fight takes place?

Navigating Uncertain Situations: When to Call the Police and When to Hold Off. Discover a balanced approach to deciding whether to involve law enforcement in tense situations. Learn how to assess potential escalation and make informed choices to mitigate risks effectively.

3/10/20251 min read

It's very natural to find yourself in a tight spot when you're unsure whether to call the cops, in case the situation could escalate, or to refrain from calling them, considering how reckless and careless you might appear if the situation doesn't escalate.

A prudent approach would be to gauge the degree of escalation anticipated in such situations. If you fear the potential for bloodshed, extreme physical violence, damage to property, or any other severe outcome, it's advisable to involve Police well before such escalation occurs.

Conversely, if you assess that the situation might only escalate to a minimal degree, it may be wise to hold off on involving the Police, as doing so prematurely could only increase the tensions further.