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Defensive tactics training for police officers

Learn essential defensive tactics to improve officer safety, control, and de-escalation in high-stress situations.

Discover the overlooked vulnerabilities in police station safety and review practical strategies for enhancing security, including tactical response, proactive planning, and improving perimeter and weapons security
Being willing to employ an effective technique or tactic the instant it is justified will do more to control a suspect than starting with an inadequate one
The use of straight, side-handle and collapsible batons in modern law enforcement
“Our mission is to train and equip Kansas LEOs with quality resources to handle potentially dangerous situations minimizing the risk of injury to anyone involved.”
In developing the new training, the department looked into research of what works and sought to incorporate de-escalation at every step
The escort position has been taught at police and corrections academies for many years, but the escort finger lock takedown may be a better option
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Use this technique when a suspect won’t give up their arms for handcuffing
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If you work long enough in law enforcement the day will come when someone spits at you. You must prepare your defensible response in advance
A technique for lone officers who meet resistance on the road
Law enforcement must capitalize on the proven effectiveness of grappling arts to control combative suspects
This technique is so named because of the ease at which you can place a person under arrest in a position to be handcuffed and controlled
Resist the adage, “I’ll request backup if I need it,” because by the time you need it, backup will likely arrive too late
Relying on striking as a default or even the primary empty-hand tool for officers is problematic
Having a toolbox filled with effective tools to instantly stop and/or discourage resistance can de-escalate many a situation
Learning to apply this hold short of pressure also means it can be used as a tactically superior escort hold
These techniques can’t be learned through casual viewing or assimilation. They can only be learned and maintained through repetition
“I could see the grip of a pistol in his waistband and saw he was reaching for it with his right hand while backing away from us.”
It’s incumbent upon officers to overcome a resistant suspect quickly to minimize the risk of injury to everyone
There are real dangers when we fail to regularly evaluate our training programs
Researchers are investigating the full spectrum of injuries that officers sustain while interacting, arresting, detaining, or pursuing suspects
I found this technique very effective during one-on-one physical struggles to handcuff
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10 officers were injured during the event, officials said
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Any impact used to thwart a suspect from taking your firearm must be done with all the power you can muster
It is imperative that officers who find themselves the victim of such an assault be able to escape quickly
The defensive move to counter the front kick not only turns the tables on your attacker, but it also upends the table on him
Police1 readers share alternative techniques to the ‘Big Ben’ option
Polis Solutions has launched two national surveys funded by the U.S. Department of Justice BJA to help improve defensive tactics training
There is one escape from the headlock that recognizes the danger of the hold
Defensive Tactics FAQs

What are defensive tactics for police officers?

Defensive tactics encompass a range of techniques and strategies that police officers use to protect themselves and others during confrontations. These include control holds, joint locks, takedowns, and de-escalation methods designed to manage resistant or aggressive individuals safely and effectively.

Why is defensive tactics training important for law enforcement?

Defensive tactics training is vital for law enforcement as it prepares officers to handle physical confrontations with confidence and control. Proper training reduces the risk of injury to both officers and suspects, ensures appropriate use of force, and enhances decision-making under stress.

How often should police officers undergo defensive tactics training?

Regular training is essential to maintain proficiency in defensive tactics. While specific requirements vary by department, ongoing practice helps officers retain skills, adapt to evolving threats, and respond effectively in high-pressure situations.

How do defensive tactics impact officer safety and public perception?

Effective defensive tactics enhance officer safety by providing tools to manage confrontations without excessive force. They also positively influence public perception by demonstrating a commitment to professionalism, restraint, and the appropriate use of force in policing.

What techniques are common defensive tactics?

Defensive tactics typically cover a variety of techniques, including: