What should an officer do before opening their door when approaching a stopped vehicle?

Before opening their door when approaching a stopped vehicle, an officer should check for traffic. This step is crucial for ensuring safety; by checking for oncoming vehicles or cyclists, the officer can prevent accidents that might occur if they open their door into the path of approaching traffic. It is an essential part of maintaining situational awareness and ensuring personal safety, as well as that of the occupants of the stopped vehicle.

Waiting for the driver to exit, securing their baton, or using the radio to call for backup may be appropriate in certain situations, but they do not address the immediate safety concern of traffic. Checking for traffic is a proactive measure that should always be taken first to avoid potential hazards before proceeding with any further actions.