Procedural training

Supporting our study of violence against law enforcement officers is the analysis of training.  During my last post, I discussed training tasks, how they are measured, and the manner in which they are trained.  To refine the discussion further, I’m looking at the role of established, standardized procedures.  Using data found in the  FBI study, “Violent Encounters” (available for download here – Violent Encounters (476), this idea is explored further.

The purpose for defining standard procedures is to allow certain actions to be planned and rehearsed in advance.  It also allows new officers to benefit from established best practices without having to rely on trial by fire.  By practicing and perfecting these procedures, law enforcement officers are able to react quickly and appropriately.   In support of the concept of procedural training, researchers for the “Violent Encounter” study found that many officers who were assaulted reported that their departments training procedures probably saved their lives.  However, researchers also found that a number of law enforcement officers who were assaulted failed to follow correct procedures.  Examples of these include:

• Acting alone prior to the arrival of backup
• Placing vehicles improperly during traffic stops
• Failing to control violators’ actions during traffic stops
• Neglecting to notify the dispatcher of traffic stops
• Searching prisoners carelessly
• Handling prisoners without employing proper restraints

While none of these procedural omissions are directly related to firearms training, they have obvious tactical implications.  By disregarding departmental procedures, law enforcement officers establish inferior positions or place themselves at additional risk.  Once an assault commences, this inferior position can be difficult to recover from, regardless of the amount of training. What I find interesting about procedural training is that it ties together the modern combat triad; marksmanship, tactics, and mindset.  Having the proper mindset can keep you from employing bad tactics, or at least alert you to the fact that you are employing bad tactics.  Having good marksmanship is the payoff.  It allows your body to perform the desired action – eliminate the threat.

The question for the law enforcement professional is simple: what are you training your law enforcement officers to do when under stress?  The statistics are clear about procedures.  Establishing and following good procedures saves lives, and are therefore relevant to your interests.  Jedburgh Corp has developed the most comprehensive and realistic training programs possible.  We are available to provide both training and training support to organizations desiring to advance their firearms training.  Contact us at info@Jedburgh-USA.com to provide feedback on the blog, or discuss your training needs.  Also, feel free to post your comments.