November 23, 2011
This was the second control tactics class I attended. The first was in week three. Let me tell you the recruits sure have progressed.
If I had to sum up today’s class in one word, it would be intense. It was the recruits’ third control tactics class working with batons.
Before getting into the baton tactics, we discussed reasonable officer response and factors that would have the officers use their batons.
It started off tame with foot drill (running laps- left right left, etc.) and quickly progressed. I was more than happy to observe this session instead of participate!
Some recruits started as suspects in FIST suits (giant padded suits) so the officer recruits could use their batons on them without anyone getting hurt. The recruits cycled through one-on-one training, taking turns being the officer and person in the padded suit.
It looked exhausting. Not only did the officers need to physically react quickly but they also needed to think quickly.
After becoming extremely tired from their one-on-one sessions, they moved to two suspects against one officer. Now they had to really incorporate their position tactics so as not to be taken down or have their batons taken away.
The recruits gave it all they had. They had to quickly cycle from officer to suspect, without much of a break.
They were in the ‘ring’ for one minute sessions. If they are in an escalated, volatile incident on the street, it could last a lot longer.
What I really took to heart from today’s session was that the officers need to learn certain skills to protect themselves. Some of what they learn is taught because they may need the tools/tactics in order to save their own lives. Some may have to literally fight for their lives.
I know when I seriously considered becoming an officer, I never really thought of the violent aspect. I assume some other people don’t either. Unfortunately, it is a fact of the job.
It seems like the recruits get the proper training to stay safe on job.
If you have any questions at all, feel free to email me at recruitblog@edmontonpolice.ca. I’ll answer the best I can.