What should a civilian do if a verbal argument occurs and it escalates?

The appropriate course of action in a situation where a verbal argument escalates is to take no action and notify the police if it becomes physical. This approach prioritizes personal safety and reduces the risk of escalating the situation further. Intervening directly can potentially lead to increased aggression or violence, putting the civilian at risk. Notifying the police ensures that trained professionals can handle the situation appropriately when it becomes necessary.

While other actions, such as trying to calm both parties or recording the incident, may seem helpful, they can also carry their own risks. Trying to calm both parties can be challenging, especially if emotions are running high, and may inadvertently provoke more aggression. Recording the incident can be useful for documentation, but it does not address the immediate issue of ensuring safety.

In essence, by taking a step back and allowing law enforcement to intervene if necessary, a civilian can contribute to maintaining peace and ensuring that the situation does not escalate into violence.