In the event of exposure to OC spray, what should an officer avoid?

Avoiding the rubbing of the eyes is crucial because OC (oleoresin capsicum) spray can cause significant irritation and inflammation. When an individual rubs their eyes after exposure, it can worsen the discomfort and spread the irritant, potentially increasing the severity of the effects. Rubbing can lead to further injury and can make the decontamination process much more challenging, as it may cause the chemical to penetrate deeper or affect additional areas. Instead, it is better to advise the individual to flush their eyes gently with water and seek medical attention if necessary.

The other options relate to actions that officers may take to ensure the safety and compliance of an affected person and should generally be performed with caution in the context of OC exposure.