Training Today For Tomorrow

Police administrators must ensure that training is in place from the ground up in every segment of law enforcement.   Lawsuits filed against police agencies frequently cite failure to train as the primary cause. Training officers need to become more resourceful in ensuring that personnel meet departmental standards.  Police officers are expected to get the job done, irrespective of the circumstances.  Training must be continual in order to effectively prepare officers to execute their duties efficiently and professionally.

During this season of budget constraints for nearly all law enforcement agencies, the temptation to slash training budgets will be strong.  Training is an investment in personnel vs. an expenditure.   An effective personnel training program protects departments from frivolous lawsuits.  Appropriate training also keeps officers safe, a paramount concern, and ensures that the job is done right the first time.  Police administrators may only achieve these goals by placing a priority on training.  The challenge is to prepare officers for tomorrow at a time when we do not know what tomorrow may bring.