Search Result: How-To Guides

The tools needed for simulating diminished hearing during training are basic: ear plugs and range ear muffs. These are effective for creating scenarios involving temporary hearing loss due to gun shots or other explosive sounds.

Michigan State Police Sgt. Jim Flegel of the Precision Driving Unit explains how troopers evaluate patrol vehicles and explains how to correct for skids created by oversteering or understeering.

Attics, basements, closets, and crawlspaces all present great hazards to officers searching for concealed suspects.

What I've learned over the years is that many officers will typically use way too much oil and solvent when cleaning their duty weapons. I've seen officers use lithium grease, brake cleaner and PB Blaster in their Glocks, but the main issues causing problems were from too much oil, or failure to remove all of the solvents.

Having a firm grip on your semi-automatic handgun is key for several reasons, the most important of which is to avoid what's commonly called "limp wristing" the gun. When a shooter has a weak or loose grip on the gun, it usually results in the firearm not cycling properly, causing the gun to jam. A firm grip will also help you on assignments, where you need to fire from a marine platform. Read "Perfecting Your Handgun Grip" for more. Photos courtesy of Michael Rayburn.

One of the best ways to train law enforcement officers in a classroom setting is to chunk up material into quickly memorized bites. You can also maximize the effectiveness of training by using a variety of memory aids.

Though there are many decision-making formats, there is one common component that is more important than any other: defining the problem you are trying to solve. One of the key ways to do so is by framing.

Once you realize that it's not personal, complaint response becomes a process not a confrontation. The key to dealing with any complaint is showing respect. By respecting yourself and others, everything else will fall into place.

Experienced officers share their life lessons for a successful law enforcement career in "If I Knew Then: Life Lessons From Cops on the Street." In the book, which is edited by Brian Willis, 30 writers contribute 37 essays. "If I Knew Then" is available exclusively at Willis' website. Also, read a review of the book by Recruit blogger Chief William Harvey.

The one thing I can tell you is that many of the students who arrive for my classes with their strobing lights ready to go are often not aware of the pros and cons of strobe light deployment.