When should dispatch be notified in relation to a high-speed pursuit?

Notifying dispatch during a high-speed pursuit is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, alerting dispatch while the pursuit is occurring ensures that all relevant law enforcement units in the vicinity are aware of the situation and can coordinate their responses accordingly. This can enhance safety for the officers involved in the pursuit and the public by ensuring that other units are not inadvertently entering the pursuit area without knowledge of the ongoing chase.

Additionally, dispatch can monitor the situation, keeping track of the pursuit's progress and providing critical information to responding units. This can include updates on the suspect's speed, location, and any potential traffic hazards or changes in the environment that the pursuing officers may need to be aware of. By communicating during the pursuit, dispatch can also assist in making strategic decisions, such as when to terminate the pursuit if it becomes too dangerous or if the risk to public safety outweighs the benefits of apprehending the suspect.

Therefore, notifying dispatch during the pursuit allows for a more organized and informed response, contributing to overall safety and operational effectiveness.