From pre-shift setup to end-of-day reset, this practical checklist helps officers build safer, more consistent patrol habits from inside the vehicle
PATROL FOCUS
Wichita Police officer and FTO Jennifer Zinkhon shares practical advice on how officers can use in-car time between calls to write reports, stay alert, manage distractions and make safer decisions on patrol
From managing radio traffic to weighing pursuit risks, officers must balance speed, safety and situational awareness on every call for service
FROM SEAT TO STREET: PATROL LESSONS FOR OFFICERS
From calm presence on scene to shared accountability, patrol officers quickly recognize leadership that supports rather than disrupts
Follow these steps to prioritize officer safety on every shift
Fight complacency caused by the “routine” by establishing a “tactical routine” oriented toward personal survival
Regardless of how long you’ve been doing traffic stops, no two are the same
A volatile roadside encounter turns into a fight inside a moving vehicle — where instinct and decision-making collide
Police1’s exclusive companion report to the “What Cops Want in 2025" survey reveals how officers combine awareness skills and new tools to stay safe
ADDITIONAL PATROL NEWS & INSIGHTS
In many cases, victims of domestic violence stay because they sense the ever-present specter of their death
Follow this comprehensive guide to being an effective courtroom witness
Hesitation, communication struggles and fear of looking inexperienced — here’s how to tackle these challenges head-on and build real confidence in the field
Tough shifts demand tough feet — fix the pain now or it’ll take you out later
Many times officers deny the stress they are experiencing for fear of being viewed as weak or not being able to handle their job
Policies help foster accountability in public safety and in our personal lives; effective policies foster success in all areas of life
I preferred the night shift because there was great camaraderie among the ranks – but I paid the price for being a night owl