What Police Need to Know
What Police Need to Know About COVID -19 Continued from Page 24 world—forever. It will change the trajectory of human behavior, social norms, use of technology, education, and commerce. For instance, the fight over homeschooling—lauded by millions of independently minded parents but opposed by teachers’ unions and the elected leaders who are beholden to them—has now all but been decided, with kids at home with family and doing their schoolwork online. That toothpaste is not going back in the tube—ever. For police though, there will always be bad guys to be brought to justice. There will always be victims to be consoled and healed. This won’t change. But because of the way in which the world will change, you’re going to have to evolve the way you do your job. Be safe in these uncertain and unsettling times. Doug Wyllie has authored more than 1,000 articles and tactical tips aimed at ensuring that police officers are safer and more successful on the streets. Doug is a Western Publishing Association “Maggie Award” winner for Best Regularly Featured Digital Edition Column. He is a member of International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association (ILEETA), an Associate Member of the California Peace Officers’ Association (CPOA), and a member of the Public Safety Writers Association (PSWA).(CPOA), and a member of the Public Safety Writers What to expect on patrol during the COVID-19 pandemic Continued from Page 27 people speak. Genuine empathy solid advice and resources, will combined with relevant suicide help all the citizens you serve we should continue to be proactive. prevention resources and appro- get through this crisis. People who are in crisis priate referrals are all effective may not reach out for help, but proactive strategies we can continue to safely employ in suicide Patrol is the backbone of any THE STRENGTH OF PATROL when they do, they should be able to easily find the resources prevention efforts. law enforcement agency. Patrol they need. Agencies should use 5. Homeless individuals officers represent our profession their websites and social media to post suicide prevention being made in many states to public. This is another time to Currently, arrangements are and local government to the messages and resources. Patrol accommodate COVID-19 positive shine. The public will remember personnel should be equipped homeless people in hotels and whether we behaved like heroes, with handouts and be ready to motels. Knowing which ones are or otherwise. A little patience provide resource information or available, their locations and the and empathy, plus delivery of referrals when necessary. contact information will make valid information will go a long We are always attuned to you a valuable first responder. way in these trying times. Continue to be on the lookout for what people are saying, and Quarantine and self-isolation now we must be hypersensitive are impossible for those without ways you can be safe as you – listening to hear the meaning a place to go. A small dose of help your community in these beneath the words distraught your compassion, combined with difficult times. 28 The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE The BLUES POLICE MAGAZINE 29
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