In the fifth of a seven-part Policing Matters Roll Call series on use of force, host Jim Dudley engages with Jamie Borden from Critical Incident Review.
Borden highlights the necessity of approaching each shift with a mindset geared towards survival and success, underpinned by continuous scenario-based training. He advises officers to adopt a proactive stance in their mental preparation, emphasizing the creation of “what if” scenarios to anticipate and plan for the myriad of situations they may face. This approach is crucial in developing the automatic responses needed in critical incidents, allowing officers to act decisively and effectively.
Key learning points
Creating “what if” scenarios: Officers should mentally prepare for their shifts by envisioning various scenarios and outcomes, facilitating quicker and more effective responses to unexpected situations.
Building confidence through drills: Confidence-building exercises and drills play a vital role in enhancing officers’ proficiency with their tools and tactics, contributing to their overall readiness and performance in the field.
Mental resilience and survival: Borden underscores the importance of a mental framework focused on survival and overcoming failure. He advocates for a mindset that doesn’t accept defeat but instead finds ways to navigate through and beyond critical incidents.
Questions for discussion
- How can law enforcement agencies incorporate mental preparedness into their training programs to better equip officers for the challenges of their duties?
- What role does continuous training and scenario-based preparation play in helping officers develop the automaticity required for effective decision-making in critical situations?
- In what ways can officers maintain their mental resilience and focus on survival, especially in the face of overwhelming odds or critical incidents?
The entire series is available for viewing below.
