What does three short, rapid blasts on a police whistle indicate?

Three short, rapid blasts on a police whistle are universally understood as a signal to give a warning or to indicate some form of alert. This signaling is often used by law enforcement and traffic control personnel to capture immediate attention or to communicate an important message quickly, such as warning drivers of a potential hazard or to alert pedestrians of an unsafe situation.

In a traffic setting, this signal serves to effectively convey urgency without the need for visual confirmation, making it particularly useful in scenarios where visibility might be compromised or where prompt action is necessary. Thus, understanding this signal is essential for safely navigating situations involving police presence and ensuring compliance with their directions.