Careers: Page 13

The Second Generation Cop

When a new recruit is a cop's son or daughter, it can be a delicate if not downright difficult matter, the 800-pound gorilla in the room that nobody wants to face.

Bad Behavior and Attitudes

There are no free passes on the streets. Therefore study, work, and sweat here to avoid getting hurt out in the real world.

Decisions Made Easy

Can you defend your decision with your legal and ethical foundations? If not, prepare for discipline or problems.

Photo courtesy of Akuppa (Flickr.com)

A Grab Bag to Go

I find it a necessity now more than ever to have a grab bag within arm's reach. To prepare for active shooters, school crises, and terrorism, you've got to have the necessary equipment and now!

DeSantis Recruit Bag

Off-Duty Stealth Tips

Perform a fashion check before you leave the house: Do I look like a cop? If so, then go prepared. If you don't want to be bothered, tone down the wardrobe.

When Am I No Longer a Rookie?

When the most mundane things to a "civilian" take on a decidedly law enforcement spin, this is when I believe you are about to enter the metamorphosis from rookie to cop.

Carrying the Load

Today, we have a litany of specialized police tools and instruments issued. I always laugh when a new product comes out and wonder if the holster manufacturers are tooling up for the new nicky neat police gadget. Does it come in basketweave?

Off-Duty Considerations

The other day a young officer inquired about off-duty actions and equipment. His question focused on how to act, so here's my advice.

Firearms 101

Say you're on duty and you contact some thugs who have guns. You have to make their guns safe for transport. If this is the first time you have ever seen this design of weapon, then what are you to do?

Watch Your Mouth

You might feel that the uniform gives you anonymity to say what you feel in the heat of the moment. But you are not a nameless person in the crowd. You are a police officer.

Know Your Limitations

Failing to call for needed backup is foolhardy "bravery" that will make you a statistic and risk all officers responding to the scene.

Take Charge of Your LE Job Search

Because the market is so competitive, you must try harder and give your best at all times. Treat every application as the most important document you've ever filled out. Slight mistakes, omissions, or sloppiness can result in elimination.

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