Skip to main content

Y.O.U.T.H.

Younger Officer Unified Training Habits

Home  BELOW 100  RECENT NEWS  About Us  Y.O.U.T.H. MANUAL  Y.O.U.T.H. VIDEOS  Contact Us  Site Map   
 
 Welcome to YOUTH-2008.com. On a weekly basis I strive to create an article every week to provide a strategy, hint, or tip to help "enhance" your driving ability so you can make it home at the end of your shift. Many in law enforcement only do driver trainer once or twice a year but constantly train on just about everything else. One issue is the lack of a viable training ground to actually drive on at higher speeds or break out the cones in a parking lot. The goal of Y.O.U.T.H. is to provide weekly messages to keep in mind as you are driving that law enforcement vehicle. We ALL know how to drive, or else we would not have the job we do. But many tend to forget that while driving fast is a part of our job when responding to a call... was that higher speed really necessary? Was taking that curve so fast really worth it when you get yourself wrapped around a tree? The answer to both is "NO!!" I don't pull any punches here and don't sugar coat my words. Traffic related incidents have been the leading cause of Line Of Duty Deaths (LODD) for too many years. It's time to stop this insanity and drive responsibly.
**BECOME A SUBSCRIBER:
If you would like to subscribe to weekly reminders of new articles ("Weekly Messages") on the YOUTH-2008 website - please go to the "CONTACT US" page and check the "Newsletter" box at the bottom of the form. Thank YOU for your continued support!!
 
You can also contact me via the following:
 
 
 
 
This page was last modified on Saturday, May 18, 2013 8:07:17 PM

            
 
 
 
What is the one thing that
 each of us do on a daily basis?
 
WE DRIVE!! 
 
It doesn't matter what call we're on - an assist call -
disabled motorist call - collision call - traffic enforcement -
pursuit - "routine" patrol - or any type of "HOT" call,
or even just to coffee... 
  
WE ARE DRIVING!!
                                                                                          
                                                                                                                                                                                                       
                         

We will never forget those that have gone before us, from any cause,
 but we continue on our WARRIOR'S path and we learn from their sacrifices!!

*********************************************************************************************************
*********************************************************************************************************

 

Each week I will insert a strategy, hint, or tip from the manual, or other source, concerning

law enforcement driving habits, roadside contacts, or any other important issue. 

 

**If you would like to read a previous weekly message (in pdf format),

please go to the "Y.O.U.T.H. MANUAL" page and follow the links. 

 

Thank You for Your Support!!


 

5-19-2013 to 5-25-2013 


PURSUITS: SAFETY vs. APPREHENSION

 

Pursuits are not a game we play on Play Station, XBOX, or in real life!!  Pursuits are not a race or any sort of competition with the suspect or each other for that matter!!

 

We’re getting into the warmer months of the year and pursuits seem to be more prevalent during this time of year. The dangers of police pursuits have been well documented. For several years, the number of officers killed in vehicle related crashes continued to rise, though not just solely during pursuits.

 

In 2003, more U. S. law enforcement officers were killed (13) while engaged in a pursuit than in any year in history. This should remind all of us of the inherent dangers associated with pursuits. In 2010 and 2011, four officers perished in each year while actively engaged in a pursuit. In 2012, five officers perished in this manner. So far this year, 2013, one officer has lost their life in a pursuit. (per the Officer Down Memorial Page)

 

Once an officer engages in a vehicle pursuit and determines that they are meeting departmental policy and their legal obligations (state law) by continuing, there are several techniques that can be used to ensure safety and success.

 

FOLLOWING DISTANCE: The tendency in a vehicle pursuit is to follow the suspect at close proximity. This is a dangerous practice, on a few levels, but is enhanced due to the stress of the situation for both the officer and the violator. The recommended following distance is about 4 to 6 seconds. This is much higher than normal driving, but it is a necessity. This gives an officer ample time to react in case the suspect attempts to use their car as a weapon or the violator to bait (brake check or a game of chicken) the officer into a collision. This also helps with tunnel vision. Tunnel vision is bound to happen while involved in a pursuit, but with the added distance this will assist you in recognizing more of your surroundings. To apply the proper following distance, merely take the time to note an object the suspect has just passed and count the number of seconds it takes for you to reach that same object. Adjust your distance based on those findings. If at all possible, this should be done “a few” times throughout the pursuit. Granted, this may seem “easier said than done” while actively engaged in the pursuit, but one thing this strategy will assist with is cutting down the chances for getting tunnel vision. While being conscious of your surroundings you will be better able to adjust to various hazards during the pursuit. After all, in a pursuit situation, we are merely pacing the suspect vehicle just like we would for any (non-radar) speed violation right?

 

TACTICAL INTERVENTION: There has been an influx over the years on utilizing tactical maneuvers to end pursuits. With the proper training and situation, these can be very effective. Although these maneuvers can end a pursuit, they can also bring an additional element of danger if not performed properly, or if the suspect anticipates the action and brakes or maneuvers wide.

 

The situation and environment must be perfect. The presence of curbs, trees, other traffic, pedestrian activity, or fixed structures can lead to severe injury or death for someone – including you. Ensure that your training is current and sufficient to justify a potentially dangerous precision maneuver. Obviously getting close violates the 4 to 6 second rule, but if done properly, these maneuvers are an invaluable tool in combating the dangers of continuing any pursuits.

 

EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT: The use of our lights & siren during a pursuit could give you a false sense of security. This is called “Siren Syndrome” which I’ll discuss in another article but simply put, with all that equipment in operation you feel invincible. Trust me you are not. Bear in mind that if YOU KNOW other drivers out there DON’T KNOW that you are coming up on their hind end, you’ll be better off in the long run. You must assume that citizens do not see or hear you. At speeds over 50 mph, a citizen will not hear the siren until the officer is right alongside, or has already passed. The phenomenon of over-driving a siren will occur in most pursuits. Daylight hours provides for another problem. Emergency lights are not seen that well during the day. The officer should be aware of this and take extreme precautions when engaged in a pursuit around the public either day or at night.

 

EMOTIONS: The participation in a pursuit is highly dangerous. The influence of increased adrenalin and the potential for tunnel vision may affect emotions and decision making. The ability to make rational decisions will be affected by emotions. You must realize this and take extra care to protect yourself, and others, while actively engaged in a pursuit. Some officers have reported that concentrating on deep breaths versus rapid breathing helps them in controlling their emotions. When emotions are up = Rationality is down...By the same token - when rationality is up = emotions are down at a controllable level.

 

ATTITUDE: This goes right along with emotions. Pursuits are not a competition. It’s not a race to see if you’re faster than the suspect, or even another officer.  It's not an event where you can "show off." The attitude an officer possesses has more to do with the safety of a pursuit than driving ability. The right attitude equals the correct decision. The correct decision equals success.

 

EMOTIONS & ATTITUDE COMBINED: Now when these two characteristics are combined it creates a highly stressful environment, for you. If you’re feeling highly agitated during, or at the termination of a pursuit, here’s my tip for you. First off, if you’ve got these feelings at the onset of a pursuit you probably shouldn’t be involved in the first place. Secondly, if you’re feeling these stresses at the termination of a pursuit - I hope you’re recognizing it. I say this as you shouldn’t be taking one step towards that subject because you will probably be doing something you’ll regret later. Take a second or two to get yourself together, regain your composure (breathe), and then go help out where you can. There are others there that are in the proper frame of mind, or mindset, that will professionally handle that suspect. On the flip side of this coin…if that suspect makes the decision to come charging at you either physically or ballistically, by all means let your emotions flow to the point of stopping that threat.

 

CONCLUSION: Apprehension IS NOT the primary goal in a police pursuit. THE SAFETY OF THE OFFICER(S) AND THE PUBLIC ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECTS. This may relate to terminating a pursuit or slowing down to a manageable speed. One thing is certain; the risks are high for all involved. By utilizing defensive techniques, controlling emotions, and having the right attitude, the officer can conduct this law enforcement function in the safest possible manner. The initiation, continuance, and ultimate termination or aborting of a pursuit is your responsibility. Having the proper mindset and making good decisions go hand in hand when engaging in a pursuit.

 

AND – Remember to breathe!!

 

*This original article was posted on 5-10-2004 by Captain Travis Yates, Tulsa PD (Oklahoma) toPoliceOne.com. I again have merely added my own “2 cents worth” here and there.

 

 

  WORK SAFE & DRIVE SMART!!

 

 

  YOUR SAFETY & YOUR SURVIVAL ARE UP TO YOU!!

 

 

                                                 

 

 

Though most of these articles started out as original articles, I have added my own two cents worth to them here and there and present them to you in my own way.

Articles that do not have a reference are ones that I have written myself.

 

 

 

WORK SAFE & DRIVE SMART EVERYONE!!

(SMART:  Safe Maneuvering ARound Traffic)  

My shift is over...Going Home!!

 

YOUTH-2008 PRIVACY POLICY


******************************************************************************************************
******************************************************************************************************
 WEBSITE INFORMATION

VISIT THE Y.O.U.T.H. MANUAL PAGE.  
VIEW AND/OR DOWNLOAD THE MANUAL.
ALSO - CATCH UP ON PAST ARTICLES IN THE ARCHIVES.
 
 VISIT THE Y.O.U.T.H. VIDEOS PAGE.
SEE THE CURRENT VIDEO ON THE Y.O.U.T.H. VIDEOS PAGE.
 
  
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!
 

********************************************************************************************************
********************************************************************************************************
  OFFICER SAFETY INITIATIVES 

 
    "BELOW 100"                                             "NOT TODAY"
     INITIATIVE
    

 

  Go to the "BELOW 100" page on this website for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

********************************************************************************************************
********************************************************************************************************

I want to personally thank PoliceOne.com, and Senior Editor Doug Wyllie, for the never-ending vault of information and videos they have which I've used from the onset of this endeavor.  If anyone visiting this website hasn't been to the PoliceOne website yet, I highly suggest you visit and see what they have to offer.  Follow their links below:
 
               “PoliceOne – News, Training and Products for Officers” - http://www.policeone.com/
                  “Police Grants Help – Grant Assistance and Resources” - http://www.policegrantshelp.com/

 

*The American Association of State Troopers (AAST) has also kindly listed this website as a link on theirs.  For all Highway Patrol, Troopers, or State Police out there, pay them a visit at:  www.statetroopers.org.  They are a great organization and offer valuable benefits to members of these agencies nationwide.  Some of the other website links down at the lower right of this page have also kindly supported my effort and provided a link on their sites.

 

Another "THANK YOU" to retired LT. Jim Glennon.  I first met Jim at a Street Survival Seminar in Lake Tahoe in 2010.  We talked a little there and have e-mailed back and forth since.  His encouragement has spurred me to further my efforts.  

 

I also want to "THANK" Captain Travis Yates of the Tulsa PD (Oklahoma) and also the current President of ALERT International.  I have used some of his articles, or portions of, and of course attribute them to him.  With his articles, as well as others, I have merely added my own "2 cents worth" to them.  Captain Yates is at www.policedriving.com and at www.tenfourministries.orgOn the "Ten Four Ministries" website, Captain Yates also has a section about donating your used vests. "Vests For Life."  If you have any body armor laying around, or if your agency has some, by all means donate them so agencies or officers without them can be put to excellent use, so they too can go home to their loved ones.

 

I would also like to THANK those that I have worked with in the California Highway Patrol (CHP), both management and officers, for their encouragement and support of the Y.O.U.T.H. Program.

 

My THANKS and GRATITUDE to all.


ACCOLADES: 

 

  But...with readers like you, the Y.O.U.T.H. Program itself would not be as successful as it is becoming.

 

>On December 4, 2009, received a CHP Certificate of Commendation from my Area Commander regarding the YOUTH Program.

>June 2011 issue of "Law Officer" magazine publishes an article about the YOUTH Program:

 

 http://www.lawofficer.com/article/patrol/curbing-danger-youth-program

 

>On June 29, 2011, received a CHP Division Chief's Commendation for efforts with the YOUTH Program.

>Member of AAST (American Association of State Troopers) (2009)

>Member of ALERT International  (Association of Professional Law Enforcement Emergency Vehicle Response Trainers) (2009)

>Member of ILEETA (International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association)  (2011)

>"Below 100" Trainer (November 8, 2011)

>California State Employee Safety Commendation (December 2012)


Proud Partner With:

BELOW 100

ALERT

Law Officer Magazine

Police Driving International (PDI)
AAST


 WEEKLY QUOTE:  

    

From: TRUE BLUE WARRIORS


 

Blessed are the peacemakers,

For they shall be called sons of God

~ Matthew 5:9


 

  

  

 

THIS PAGE CONTAINS PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS AND OPINIONS OF THE AUTHOR.  IT DOES NOT REFLECT THE VIEWS, NOR REPRESENT AN OFFICIAL POSITION, OF THE CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL.  FURTHER, THE CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL DOES NOT ENDORSE OR APPROVE THE CONTENT OF, NOR IS IT IN ANY MANNER AFFILIATED WITH OR RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT OF THIS WEBSITE.

 

Any images that are displayed I have obtained from the World Wide Web search engines (public domain), my own personal collection of magazines, and occupational and officer safety posters, and are intended to only illustrate or accentuate any given point.  No intentional harm or disrespect is intended to any person or persons, or any agency, department, or entity.  “Fair Use” is claimed in obtaining and using these images for illustration, educational, safety, and research purposes as this website is dedicated to providing safety strategies, hints, and tips to enhance the safe arrival of law enforcement back home to their loved ones.  There is no profit gained from utilizing these images or articles.  YOUTH-2008.com does not hold any claim to own any copyright to the photos displayed here on this site. 

 

If you believe you are the copyright owner of an image or photograph listed here, feel that it is inappropriately displayed, and would like it removed, please by all means, go to the "Contact Us" page and describe the photo and title and week of the "Weekly Message" and I will remove it from this site immediately.