Hickory police Capt. Jay Jackson has been on the force for 11 years so he knows the ins-and-outs of a traffic stop. Here’s the advice he gives his loved ones on what to do when the blue lights come on behind you.

1. Don’t start reaching for your license when you see the blue lights. A lot of activity in the front seat makes the officer wonder what you’re up to.

2. Keep your hands where (s)he can see them. Remember drivers’ ed? Get those fingers on 10 and two. It never hurts to turn on the interior light, too. Show the officer you have nothing to hide.

3. When the cop asks, “Do you know why I pulled you over,” your answer isn’t going to make much difference. The cop has probably already decided whether you’re getting a ticket. He or she is just trying to be conversational instead of scary.

4. Don’t panic. When you see the blue lights, turn on your signal, slow down and start trying to get off the road in a safe place. Make sure all four tires are out of traffic. No officer will fault you for trying to be safe.

5. If the police officer doesn’t tell you, it’s OK to ask why you got pulled over. But you’re never going to argue your way out of a ticket. Save it for the courtroom.

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