Visiting a police station to file a complaint can prove to be a harrowing experience for first timers. MiD DAY brings you a list of dos and don'ts to make it a little easier

Many people may have never visited a police station a place where one ends up only during difficult times. You go there only when you've been in an accident or when you have to lodge a complaint about a theft, robbery and the like.

A police station sports an unusual mix of several people ofu00a0 varying temperaments, purposes and outlooks.
Your visit to a police station could vary from being a breeze or the exact opposite.
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You could very well end up lost in a maze, unable to understand the language, let alone the law. And, one wrong move or gesture could end up making things more difficult.

Here, then, is a quick list of dos and don'ts.u00a0Remember: Everything that you do once you are inside a police station is observed, including what you wear, the language you speak, the people you call, the names you drop and your 'temperament'.

Be composed and courteous: Rude language will not take you anywhere. Policemen like gestures that make them feel important. A smile or a salute may do the trick.

Avoid phone calls, talking loudly: Maintain etiquette while you are in the station. Avoid taking phone calls or talking too loudly.

Always listen: Arguing with policemen does not help. Instead, listen to what they have to say and then put across your point of view. It is good manners too.u00a0u00a0

Mind your language: Address policemen with respect. Calling them a pandu or bhai is unadvisable. Instead, use words like commander for a constable or just stick to the tried-and-tested saheb.

Avoid being too friendly: Unless the policeman is really a friend, avoid gestures like tapping his shoulder. Stick to what you're there for.

Don't breathe down their necks: It is important to follow up your case, but don't pester policemen with constant phone calls or daily visits.

Don't brag about your contacts: If you have a person who is willing to help you in distress, keep it to yourself. Don't brag, for you might end up rubbing the policeman the wrong way .

Maintain decorum: Hurling abuses inside the police station should be avoided. Don't walk in whistling or listening to music. A serious, sober look will help.

Always follow protocol: Every police station has a senior police inspector who sits in a separate cabin. In case you wish to meet them, there will be an orderly outside. Pass in the requisition through him.

Stick to facts: Never file a false complaint or give wrong information to the police. It is a punishable offence and you can be prosecuted.

How to lodge an FIR:

A First Information Report (FIR) is a written document prepared by the police when they receive information about the commission of a cognisable offence. It is a report of information that reaches the police first in point of time.

It is generally a complaint lodged with the police by the victim of a cognisable offence or by someone on his/her behalf.

Why is it important?
An FIR is a very important document as it sets the process of criminal justice into motion. It is only after the FIR is registered that the police take up investigation of the case.