We all know the saying about assuming stuff. Well, here is another take on that you might appreciate. With the help of some great friends I have in law enforcement, I have created a Letterman-style Top 10 List of dangerous assumptions to avoid. Take a moment to read the following list and then consider posting this in your locker or keeping a copy in your unit to review before each shift. I have to assume (yeah, I went there!) that you have a great one to add to the list, so post that in the comments field below.
10.) Don’t assume that a suicidal subject is only intent on killing himself/herself.
9.) Don’t assume that the only reason a suspect is threatening you with his bare hands is because he doesn’t have another weapon to use.
8.) Don’t assume that broken bottles, screwdrivers, razor blades, sticks, etc. can’t cause serious injury or be deadly.
7.) Don’t assume that you’ll be OK if you skip wearing your vest “just this once.”
6.) Don’t assume that just because they’re criminals, they’re stupid.
5.) Don’t assume that your next traffic stop will be just like the others.
4.) Don’t assume that the only training you need is that which is mandated and provided by your agency.
3.) Don’t assume that cops are supposed to be emotionally superhuman and there is no place for emotion in law enforcement.
2.) Don’t assume that just because you’ve found one weapon on a suspect you’ve found them all.
And the number one assumption to avoid...
1.) Don’t assume that you’re not making a difference out there, because you make a huge difference every single day!
Add to the list — post your comments below. Stay safe!
~ dw
