Which type of situation would require immediate police assistance according to radio operator protocols?

Immediate police assistance is crucial in situations that pose a significant threat to life and public safety, such as a hostage situation or terrorism. In these scenarios, the potential for harm to individuals is high, and swift intervention by law enforcement is vital to prevent loss of life and mitigate danger. Protocols dictate that a radio operator must prioritize communication of such critical incidents to ensure a rapid response from emergency services.

In contrast, situations like routine traffic stops or community event management typically do not constitute an immediate threat that necessitates urgent police intervention. These situations are usually managed through regular law enforcement procedures and may not require immediate broadcast to emergency services unless they escalate into more serious issues. Public disturbances might also require police presence, but they do not reach the same level of urgency as a hostage situation or terrorism, where lives could be at stake.