Before beginning the SFST, what must the officer ensure?

The officer must ensure that the environment is safe and suitable for testing before beginning the Standardized Field Sobriety Test. This is crucial because the accuracy and reliability of the test outcomes can be significantly affected by the conditions in which the test is administered. A safe environment allows for proper execution of the tests without risk of injury to either the officer or the subject, as well as minimizing distractions that could influence the test results.

Assessing the surroundings also ensures that the officer can manage any potential hazards, such as traffic or uneven ground, which could compromise the integrity of the test. Additionally, a suitable location helps maintain the focus of both the officer and the subject, which is important for observing the test subject's performance.

Other factors, such as lighting and equipment functionality, are important, but they are secondary to confirming a safe environment. Choosing a suitable testing location lays the foundation for all subsequent steps, helping to uphold the validity of the results obtained from the SFST.