Careers: Page 8

Facing the Realities of Life

The cruelty of man toward his fellow man never ceases to amaze me. How and what some do to others is sad, senseless, and boggles my mind at times. You've got to deal with it and drive on with a grip on reality.

How to Handle Residency Requirements

If you're applying to an agency, read the fine print. I mean the really fine print. There are some police agencies that require you to prove you've established residency for up to two years prior to submitting an application. Others require you to move into the jurisdiction within a year of your hire date.

Thinking Like a Cop

One of the biggest transitions a recruit must make is to start thinking like a cop, rather than Joe Average Guy on the street. I'm not talking about speaking in police tongues such as 10 codes, jargon and criminal codes.

Survivor Retreats Aid the Healing Process

The Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) sponsors retreats where survivors work with counselors trained to focus on the issues unique to law enforcement death, and benefit from the strong peer support available from other survivors who can truly say, "I understand what you're going through."

Photo: Concerns of Police Survivors.

Safeguarding Your Equipment

A police officer had his entire gun belt stolen from his privately owned vehicle. What the...? Yes, the entire gun belt with ammo, cuffs, OC, police radio, and bullet launcher. Secure your equipment so this doesn't happen to you.

Joplin: A Tornado Tests Your Preparedness

Joplin will rise from the ripped trees and flattened devastation as a more modern, more energetic, and more proud community. And, I wonder, will you take the time to make your own bug-out bag, buy that generator, and be prepared if it happens to you?

Photo: Roy Huntington.

A Few More Job Interview Tips

The job market is competitive, and this seems to be the question of the day. If you really want the job, a little practice and planning might get you over this hurdle. Exhale, calm down and follow these tips.

What National Police Week Means to Survivors

During National Police Week, the Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) hosts the National Police Survivors' Conference to provide healing in a safe environment for adult survivors. It's a place where others truly understand the day-to-day struggles of recovering from a line-of-duty death.

R Cops Conference

The Bling Factor: Jewelry on Patrol

Most departments have a policy or regulation regarding jewelry. The boilerplate verbiage could include a limit of one wristwatch, one bracelet, and one necklace that's not visible to the public. One ring per hand is standard. Earrings are usually allowed for females, and policies may now also cover male officers.

Photo: bigwoodie (Flickr).

C.O.P.S. Blue Ribbon Campaign Honors Officer Sacrifice

Law enforcement personnel are encouraged to tie blue ribbons to cruiser antennas. Citizens are encouraged to tie blue ribbons to their car antennas during National Police Week to show support for their local law enforcement officers and the sacrifices made by law enforcement families nationwide.

R Blue Ribbon Campaign Web

Are the Elements of Your Life In Balance?

I'd compare your life foundation to a table with four legs holding it steady. What are the four legs? Family, faith, friends and vocation. Let's explore them to help you achieve balance.

At 109 yards, Hole No. 7 at Pebble Beach is the shortest hole is U.S. history, yet players must contend with high winds. Photo via Flickr (Simonds).

Proofread Your Reports

Once you have labored over a lengthy report, stop if you can. Grab a coffee, sit back down and read it as a neutral party, from the 10,000-foot level. Try to disassociate yourself from your product and read it critically. Don't give it a quick blush over; read it.

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