What is the primary function of cover during a police operation?

The primary function of cover during a police operation is to stop bullets, which is crucial for the safety and survival of officers in the field. In high-stress situations where gunfire may occur, having physical barriers that can absorb or deflect projectiles offers protection to law enforcement personnel. This could involve using structures like walls, vehicles, or other obstacles that can effectively shield officers from incoming fire.

While concealment serves the purpose of hiding an officer's position from the suspect, and other options mention aspects like communication and gaining a strategic advantage, the essential role of cover focuses on ensuring physical safety against gunfire. It is this protective aspect that is fundamentally vital in operational scenarios, making it the standout function of cover in police operations.