Personal affairs in order: Congratulations, you are in a profession where death or serious bodily injury is a distinct possibility. Give yourself more options other than command presence, verbal orders, physical force and deadly force. Make sure you see them.īaton/Mace/CED: Intermediate weapons as allowed by your agency. The bad guys are out there and they will see you. Charge your battery before each shift.įlashlight and a backup: Being able to see in the dark is critical. Radio: Have faith, your police computer will fail, or you will be chasing a suspect and you will need to call out locations. It replaces the Kevlar trauma plate, but they are rated to stop shotgun shells and rifle bullets over a critical area. A friend suggested investing in a ceramic trauma plate to cover your chest. More than a few front desk officers have been in a firefight. If you will interact with the public, be prepared that some of the public will not like you, even if you’re working at the station desk. Why anyone would not wear it is beyond me. I suggest at least two pairs so you can rotate them.īody armor: Wear it, end of discussion. You don't need it unless you need it badly.Ĭomfortable shoes/boots: You will be in them all day and your feet will start to hurt if mistreated. The odds are you will never fire your weapon outside the range, but a firearm is like blood or a parachute. Replace your daily load regularly (like every year during your birth month). Primary duty weapon: Cleaned, loaded with operable ammunition. Uniform: Clean, with insignia (badge and nameplate). This is not intended as an exhaustive list.