Police equipmentthat restrain criminals

I spent years training new officers as a field training officer. A question I was often asked was, “What equipment do I really need on the street?” I’ve usually answered that there is no one way to do this job and the equipment needed varies. I’ve also suggested that as new cops see other cops working, that they should adopt what works for them. Good ideas are best shared.

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Michael A. Thiac is a Houston Police patrol sergeant and field training supervisor with over 18 years of experience. He is retired from the Army Reserve, after spending 23 years in intelligence. When not on patrol, he can be found at A Cop’s Watch.

Northwest Enforcement equips our officers with any of the below types of training, based on specific contract requirements.  Security officers working alone at a site at night typically receive security training, report writing and First Aid/CPR/AED. Tactical trainings such as OC Pepper Spray, for example, are typically provided based on client request or site demands.  Community Safety Ambassador officers who are interacting with client guests and the public receive additional training related to customer service and people interaction, things like conflict resolution and cultural diversity courses.

Every officer knows the importance of reliable ammunition. That’s why we’ve put together an essential guide and video on how to properly inspect your duty ammo. Ensuring your rounds are in top condition is crucial for your safety and effectiveness.

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That being said, here is a list of some basics for every cop on the street. This is a list organized by the “must-haves” (don’t go out without them), the “should-haves” (not war-stoppers, but highly recommended) and the “good-to-haves” (not necessarily needed, but they make life easier), in no particular order. Is it complete? Not really. Everyone has a different situation, but here are some requirements and suggestions.

Questions like this should be answered before you get on the streets. LegalZoom offers online services and many police unions or agencies offer assistance in this. Also, if you have a “change of life” such as divorce, marriage or birth of a child, make sure things like insurance policies and pension benefits are updated.

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I recommend something small without an exposed hammer (have faith, it will catch on something when you desperately need it) so you can get it out easily. I carry a snub-nose .357 Ruger LCR in my left cargo pocket. No exposed hammer and no parts to jam. If I yank the trigger, it will fire. Even if you don’t hit your target, you may scare the person enough that he or she runs or you can back off and reassess. Again, whatever works for you.

Author’s note: The statements, opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed herein are solely those of the author and not in any official capacity as an employee of the Houston Police Department and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints or official policies of the Houston Police Department.

In this video, Robert Carlson from Brave Defender Training Group explains the critical skill of self-applying a tourniquet for law enforcement officers. This essential technique can mean the difference between life and death, as arterial bleeding can lead to fatal blood loss within minutes.

This is not intended as an exhaustive list. Adapt it to how you work on the street. Remember you don’t have to buy everything at once. Observe how others do the job and use their knowledge and experience to ensure you accomplish your greatest goal: Go home at the end of the watch.

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If you’re a single parent, or both you and your spouse are cops, have you planned for your children if something should happen? If the answer is “Mom and Dad will take care of the kids,” do Mom and Dad know that? Have you discussed this with them? Do they have (or can obtain) your kids’ medical and education records? Have you given them a power of attorney for this matter? Have you planned for switching schools, or if you are in a hospital for long-term recovery, will one parent move into your house?

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Extra ammo: Ammo is cheap; life is not. Extra rounds for anything you carry, preferably in a magazine so it’s quick to reload.

Learn about the specialty courses we offer our team and inquire about state certification courses for yourself or your organization!

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Personal affairs in order: Congratulations, you are in a profession where death or serious bodily injury is a distinct possibility. Is your family ready? Have you set up a will, living will, medical power of attorney and final directives? Does your family know where they are? Even if you’re single, you need to plan for the worst because someone may have to decide for you.

Back-up weapon: Assume you need to use deadly force and for whatever reason, you cannot use your primary weapon (e.g. your strong arm is injured or your firearm has a mechanical failure), what do you do? A backup weapon can be a lifesaver. I suggest you orient it to your weak hand (for most of us, the left) so if your strong hand is injured, you still have a plausible threat of deadly force against your target.