You can have a fine career here in Copland and can do so without breaking the rules and ending up in trouble. Each of these lessons learned comes from a true story that had liability and professional repercussions.
October 3, 2013
Training in real-world conditions is the key. Get outside in the hot, cold, dark, and whatever weather you have to operate in. Realism begins in training and not in make believe.
February 14, 2013
Just because you got it out of the childproof packaging doesn't mean you know how to properly use it. If it's a police item you would describe as "tactical cool," please read your departmental policy and procedures to see if it is allowed.
July 5, 2012
A reader asked me what one thing I would recommend he purchase for everyday use as a police officer. My answer? An everyday carry knife.
January 18, 2012
More and more officers suffer from back injuries. We carry far too much gear around our waists. Duty belts press against our lower back while we're sitting in the cruiser. These three approaches to back pain can extend your career and keep life enjoyable.
November 3, 2011
Rookies will buy nearly anything without the trifecta of questions that every young cop should ask themselves before a purchase.
September 13, 2010
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?
November 30, 2009
You need to weigh criticality versus frequency in making this decision. How critical is it for you to have this widget? Will your life and survival depend on it? If not, reconsider.
June 2, 2009
Yes, price is a consideration, as well as quality. But finding the right tool for your job is paramount.
February 20, 2009
Yes, GPS systems and PDAs can be great, but there is a little too much technological short cutting going on here and this is a large safety issue.
March 11, 2008
Recently a reader contacted me about a personal dilemma. He told me his department issues a certain make and caliber of pistol and he doesn't like it. He further stated he did not like the holster, in addition to a laundry list of other items he was issued. What could he do now as his agency's newest rookie?
July 12, 2007
Back when I was in the U.S. Army MP Corps we were taught to set aside time for personal equipment maintenance. I highly recommend you do the same. Warriors need to prepare for their calling; policework is no different.
July 3, 2007
Your department should tell you what it will issue to you. This prevents you from purchasing needless items and wasting your money. It should also tell you the items it recommends you have that it will not purchase for you. Finally, it should tell you what it prohibits you to have.
May 9, 2007