Police are a group of people empowered by a state to enforce the law and protect citizens and property within a defined legal or territorial area. They are also the government’s de facto response to a wide range of social problems, from homelessness and substance misuse to mental health crises. This has increased their workload and made them feel overburdened and misunderstood by the communities they serve. This can lead to heightened tensions, and it is important for police to understand how their actions can generate animosity from the public.

Police officers are often seen working with young people in the community, talking to them about things which are criminal and what to do if they see something happening. They also collaborate with the municipalities, and they sometimes visit schools so that children and young people can meet police officers and learn more about the work they do.

It is important that you do not act aggressively towards the police or make threats. This could result in you being arrested, and it is a crime to try to influence the police’s decision by paying money.

If you have an interpreter, use it, and don’t hide from the police if they ask you to. Do not tamper with or conceal evidence. Avoid displaying overt symbols at your home that show you are a police officer, and keep in mind that the internet can be used to identify you as a police officer.