Police safety is more important today than ever before. Over one third of law enforcement officer deaths over the last 10 years were caused by gunshots, making shootings the second leading cause of police officer death (after motor vehicle crashes). With advanced safety measures and equipment, there are tools on the market to improve police safety. These are some of the most effective safety measures.
Increased trainings
Increased training not only prepare police officers for what to do in the event of an emergency, but they also teach them proper safety measures. Officers that receive more safety training are more likely to utilize the safety equipment and practices when they are on the job. They are also more likely to encourage other officers to also practice safety during a patrol. Extending officer training or provided them with routine safety classes after a set number of years in service can reduce the harm and injury on the job.
Dash and body cameras
Dash and body cameras for police officers are a touchy subject for many. However, instead of thinking about them as a method of monitoring police activity, think about them in terms of safety. Body cams make officers think about their actions, including safety protocols. It also reminds them to be safe when in the field. Finally, dash and body cameras can provide justice to an officer, when they are injured. In many cases, the criminal that injures a police officer is never found. When the officer is equipped with both dash and body cameras, the chances are higher that the criminal will be caught.
Body armor for police officers
Body armor, police tactical gear, and bulletproof vests for police officers can also increase safety. Hopefully, a police officer will never need the bulletproof vests for police officers or high level tactical gear. However, if an emergency does arise, the officer will be prepared. Bulletproof vests for police officers are useful, even for the day to day on the job. An officer never knows when they will be met with gunfire or an armed suspect. In fact, 87 police officers in New York City alone have been saved by body armor since 1978.
In addition to body armor and bulletproof vests for police officers, it is also important that officers are equipped with the right body armor levels and strengths. About 20% of the officers who died from a gunshot wound to the torso while wearing body armor died because they were shot with ammunition that was more powerful than their body armor?s capability to stop it. Body armor and bulletproof vests need to be of the highest grade and need to be replaced after use, for the best chances.
Advanced gun and weapon training
In addition to additional safety training, many police officers can also benefit from the advanced gun and weapon training. A single second of hesitation can result in the officer being injured, even with their own gun. Advanced gun and weapon training ensure that all police officers are familiar with their gun and the safety of it. It also provides them with up to date knowledge of the best and safest gun laws.
Police officers have an extremely dangerous job. They are put in the face of danger on a daily basis and many are injured or worse. With increased safety training, body and dash cams, advanced gun training, and bulletproof vests for police officers, we can hope to reduce the harm and injury of police officers on the job.
