Law enforcement agencies must adopt effective use of force policies to ensure both public safety and officer accountability.
The Importance of Clear Use of Force Policies
Clear use of force policies are essential for law enforcement agencies to maintain public trust and ensure that officers adhere to established standards. These policies provide a framework that guides officers in making critical decisions during high-pressure situations. By having well-defined protocols, agencies can mitigate the risk of excessive force and align their actions with legal and ethical standards.
Furthermore, transparent policies help in maintaining accountability. When officers understand the boundaries and expectations set forth by their department, it becomes easier to enforce compliance and address any deviations effectively. This clarity not only protects the public but also safeguards officers from potential legal repercussions and public scrutiny.
Training and Simulation: Preparing Officers for Real-World Scenarios
Effective training programs are vital in preparing officers for the complexities of real-world scenarios. Utilizing advanced simulation technologies, such as those provided by VirTra, law enforcement agencies can create realistic environments where officers can practice their decision-making skills. These simulations allow officers to experience a wide range of situations, from routine encounters to high-stress confrontations in a controlled setting.
By engaging in immersive training, officers can better understand the nuances of use of force and develop the necessary skills to de-escalate potentially volatile situations. This hands-on approach ensures that officers are not only knowledgeable about policies but also adept at applying them in the field.
Balancing Public Safety and Officer Safety
A key challenge in law enforcement is balancing the need for public safety with the imperative to protect officers. Effective use of force policies must address this balance by providing guidelines that prioritize de-escalation and minimal force whenever possible while ensuring that officers are equipped to protect themselves and others.
Adopting a balanced approach fosters a safer community and enhances the overall effectiveness of law enforcement operations. It encourages a culture of restraint and respect for human life, which is crucial for maintaining public trust and supporting the well-being of officers.
Legal and Ethical Considerations in Use of Force
The use of force in law enforcement is governed by a complex web of legal and ethical considerations. Policies must align with federal, state, and local laws to ensure that officers’ actions are legally defensible. Additionally, ethical standards play a vital role in guiding officers’ behavior, emphasizing the importance of integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights.
Law enforcement agencies must provide continuous education on these legal and ethical frameworks. This ongoing training helps officers stay current with evolving standards and reinforces the importance of upholding the law and ethical principles in every interaction.
Continuous Review and Improvement of Policies
The dynamic nature of law enforcement necessitates the continuous review and improvement of use of force policies. Agencies must regularly assess the effectiveness of their policies through data analysis, feedback from officers, and community input. This iterative process ensures that policies remain relevant and effective in addressing current challenges.
By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, law enforcement agencies can adapt to new developments, incorporate best practices, and enhance their overall effectiveness. This commitment to excellence not only improves operational outcomes but also strengthens public trust and officer morale.
For information on how VirTra can help increase officer safety, contact us.
In the complex and high-stakes world of law enforcement, the ability to wisely use discretion can mean the difference between a peaceful resolution and unnecessary escalation.
The Importance of Discretion in Law Enforcement
Discretion is a fundamental aspect of law enforcement, allowing officers to make judgement calls based on the situation at hand. This ability to be flexible and responsive is crucial in maintaining order and ensuring public safety. It involves assessing the context and dynamics of an encounter to decide the most appropriate course of action.
Without the use of discretion, law enforcement would be forced to apply rigid protocols to every situation, which could lead to unnecessary confrontations or missed opportunities for de-escalation. Effective discretion helps in building trust within the community, as it demonstrates that officers are capable of making fair, human-centered decisions.
Factors Influencing the Decision to Escalate
Several factors can influence an officer’s decision to escalate an encounter. These include the behavior and demeanor of the individual involved, the presence of weapons, the environment, and the potential threat to public safety. Officers must quickly assess these elements to determine whether escalation is warranted.
Another critical factor is the legal framework and departmental policies that guide officers on when and how to escalate. These guidelines ensure that actions are legally justified and in line with ethical standards. Additionally, the officer’s experience, training, and intuition play a significant role in making these split-second decisions.
Training and Guidelines for Effective Discretion
Proper training and clear guidelines are essential for officers to exercise effective discretion. Training programs, such as those offered by VirTra’s V-VICTA®, provide officers with realistic scenarios that enhance their decision-making skills. These programs emphasize the importance of situational awareness, communication skills, and conflict resolution techniques.
Guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are also critical. They provide a framework within which officers can operate, ensuring consistency and accountability in their actions. These SOPs often include protocols for use of force, de-escalation techniques, and criteria for escalation, helping officers to make informed decisions in the field.
Case Studies: Real-World Examples of Discretion
Real-world case studies provide valuable insights into the application of discretion in law enforcement. For instance, an officer responding to a domestic dispute might choose to de-escalate the situation by separating the parties and mediating a dialogue rather than immediately resorting to arrests. This approach not only resolves the immediate conflict but also fosters trust within the community.
Another example could be an officer encountering a person experiencing a mental health crisis. Instead of escalating through force, the officer might use de-escalation techniques learned in training to calm the individual and connect them with appropriate mental health services. These cases highlight how discretion can lead to more humane and effective policing.
Balancing Safety and Community Trust
Balancing the need for safety with the goal of maintaining community trust is a complex challenge for law enforcement. Effective use of discretion plays a pivotal role in achieving this balance. By making thoughtful, measured decisions, officers can protect public safety while also demonstrating respect and empathy for the individuals involved.
Building community trust requires transparency and accountability in how discretion is exercised. Law enforcement agencies must ensure that their officers are well-trained, supported, and guided by clear policies. Engaging with the community and fostering open communication also helps in understanding community concerns and building a foundation of mutual respect and trust.
To learn more about how VirTra can help your agency, contact us to speak to a product specialist.
CHANDLER, Ariz. — April 29, 2024 — VirTra, Inc. (Nasdaq: VTSI) (“VirTra”), a global provider of judgmental use-of-force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement and military markets, announced its participation at the International Association for Healthcare Security & Safety (IAHSS) Conference and Exhibition in Orlando from April 29 to May 1, 2024. As a first-time vendor, VirTra will introduce its new V-XR headset training solution at the event, highlighting its advanced functionality and ability to meet diverse training demands, particularly in healthcare settings.
The IAHSS Annual Conference and Exhibition is a key event for healthcare’s top security, safety, and emergency management leaders to network, meet with vendors, and find solutions for their challenges. This year, VirTra joins the expo to demonstrate the effectiveness of its new V-XR training solution, a compact, lightweight headset training simulator with a focus on de-escalation scenarios. The headset features hyper-realistic characters created using volumetric video capture and pass-through to reduce motion sickness for the user.
VirTra’s recent entry into the healthcare market began last month when it partnered with Ascension St. John Hospital (“Ascension”) to equip its team with advanced training simulators. VirTra’s V-180 was a practical application of Ascension’s grant funds.
Darrel Long, Director of Security for Ascension Oklahoma, noted the impact, stating, “We can implement frequent training in scenarios representing our environment. The V-180 is a tremendous asset and allows all security officers within the Ascension St. John Health System to ensure patient and associate safety.”
Ascension also reported the system’s success in a recent case study, available to download on VirTra’s website. The study highlights the simulator’s wide range of training scenarios and how it allows the entire staff, not just the security team, to practice skills that keep them safe.
As VirTra’s role in healthcare security expands, multiple other healthcare organizations have already adopted its technologies. Ohio Healthcare PD, TriHealth Cincinnati, Marion Hospital in Indiana, Indiana University Hospital, Health First Security in Florida, and several VA locations have begun training their teams using VirTra simulators.
John Givens, CEO of VirTra, stated, “Every day, medical providers around the country go beyond the call of duty for their patients. VirTra supports every initiative within our capabilities to ensure the security of hospital staff while on the job. With our V-XR training solution, we are not only enhancing safety in healthcare environments but also demonstrating its cross-market functionality, allowing us to begin expansion beyond our core law enforcement and military markets. I’m confident that the training provided by our simulators will instill a renewed sense of safety among hospital staff, patients, and their visitors.”
VirTra’s entry into healthcare security coincides with an increase in unruly and sometimes violent behavior directed at healthcare providers. A 2022 report from the American College of Emergency Physicians revealed a significant increase in healthcare violence, with 55% of physicians surveyed saying they had been physically assaulted while at work. With the increased demand for hospital security, VirTra is stepping up to provide advanced use-of-force, de-escalation, and other forms of simulator-based training to its healthcare partners.
About VirTra, Inc.
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this discussion contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to the “safe harbor” created by those sections. The words “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “projects,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements that we make. The forward-looking statements are applicable only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this document are made based on our current expectations, forecasts, estimates and assumptions, and involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause results or events to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements, you should specifically consider various factors, uncertainties and risks that could affect our future results or operations. These factors, uncertainties and risks may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement set forth in the reports we file with or furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). You should carefully consider these risks and uncertainties described and other information contained in the reports we file with or furnish to the SEC before making any investment decision with respect to our securities. All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
Investor Relations Contact:
Matt Glover and Alec Wilson
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
Oklahoma Health System, Ascension St. John acquires VirTra simulator for healthcare security training.
According to a 2022 report for the American College of Emergency Physicians, 55% of
physicians taking the survey said they have been physically assaulted while at work, and 79%
have witnessed an assault. Unfortunately, violence and threats are common in medical facilities,
and security must be prepared to protect healthcare providers.
Most hospitals employ a security team, and like traditional law enforcement officers, hospital
security must undergo effective training to perform their duties proficiently.
VirTra is a company that provides advanced training simulators to law enforcement, military,
security, education, and medical industries. Hundreds of organizations across 40 countries use
VirTra simulators. Ascension St. John is the first private healthcare facility to obtain a VirTra
simulator.
The Ascension St. John Health System currently employs over 40 security officers trained in
security procedures, communication, de-escalation, and active shooter events. The safety of
their patients, guests, and associates is a top priority, so these officers must be prepared for
active threats, even if they occur infrequently.
In 2022, Ascension St. John Health System secured the VirTra simulator through the FEMA
Nonprofit Security Grant Program, a program designed to promote emergency preparedness
coordination and collaboration among public and private community representatives and state
and local government agencies. Healthcare industry facilities services provider, Medxcel,
facilitated the grant application, procurement, and installation processes.
“As part of our emergency management program, we help our healthcare locations apply for
federal grants that help pay for damages after a disaster, grants that help reduce risk, such as
hazard mitigation and security grants, and manage the required paperwork and reports.”
explained Scott Cormier, Vice President of Emergency Management, Environment of Care, and
Safety at Medxcel. “In the past six years, we’ve received approval for over $110M worth of
grants. These grants are even more important as healthcare systems continue to recover from
the worldwide impact of COVID-19 and find capital funds are limited.”
The three-screen VirTra V-180® decision-making simulator was installed in January 2024,
allowing users to practice for many interactive scenarios reflective of real-life situations. The
simulator features a large library of scenarios that offer various pathways to resolutions.
Scenarios pivot based on the officer’s responses, and actions and numerous training points can
be covered, including contact and cover, mental health/autism awareness, crisis de-escalation,
active threats, and many more.
Dynamic decision-making scenario-based training allows the security team to practice
numerous skills in a safe environment. Before receiving the simulator, Ascension St. John
Health System security officers would train in a classroom, practice handcuffing techniques or
spend time at a shooting range.
“We can implement frequent training in scenarios representing our environment. This is a
tremendous asset and allows all security officers within the Ascension St. John Health System
to ensure patient and associate safety.” Darrel Long, Director of Security for Ascension
Oklahoma stated.
Not only will the security team benefit from this system, but other staff members will be able to
experience situations, potential outcomes, and de-escalation techniques. By understanding the
possibilities of what could occur and how to respond, the rest of the hospital team can see how
the actions employed by the security team ensure a safe environment.
About VirTra, Inc.
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and
firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial
markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense
training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that
mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through
practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the
company at www.VirTra.com.
About Medxcel
As the largest sole provider of healthcare facilities services in the U.S., Medxcel delivers
operational savings, reduces supply chain costs, and increases compliance scores by
optimizing current resources and improving the overall healthcare environment.
About Ascension St. John
Ascension St. John operates six hospitals and more than 90 healthcare clinics and facilities in
eastern Oklahoma and southeastern Kansas. Ascension St. John employs approximately 4,500
associates. In fiscal year 2023 (July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023), Ascension St. John
provided more than $79 million in total community benefit and unpaid costs of Medicare
services, including care of individuals living in poverty. Serving Oklahoma for 98 years.
Ascension is a faith-based healthcare organization committed to delivering compassionate,
personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most
vulnerable. Ascension is one of the leading non-profit and Catholic health systems in the U.S.,
operating 2,600 sites of care – including 142 hospitals and more than 40 senior living facilities –
in 19 states and the District of Columbia.
Download a pdf copy here:
According to a 2022 report for American College of Emergency Physicians, 55% of physicians taking the survey said they have been physically assaulted while at work. 79% said they have witnessed an assault. Even a quick internet search will show many instances when healthcare workers are assaulted by patients or guests.
Hospitals often have security, whether it is their own officers, private security, or the town’s municipal police. One thing that all of them have in common is they must have effective training to be able to do their jobs well.
How One Private Hospital Began Advanced Training
Ascension St. John hospital in Oklahoma provides different styles of training for their security officers. Some of it includes range training, others include handcuff techniques. They felt there was a gap missing in their training, however.
Just last month, they obtained a V-180® simulator through grant funds, helping them fill what was missing. The simulator enables them to practice various scenarios such as active threats and de-escalation – two skills important for officers of all kinds, from security and SRO’s to state and municipal law enforcement. Check out their media coverage.
Multiple Training Styles for Hospital Security
Whether it is for an encounter requiring lethal force or just an irate subject who needs to be verbally de-escalated, there are scenarios available for hospital security and local officers tasked with protecting a medical facility. Each scenario has multiple branching options that change based on the user’s words and actions. The decision-making process is vital – whether you choose to use a firearm, less-lethal, or verbal communication must be determined in mere seconds.
While VirTra does provide training tools for law enforcement such as non-lethal devices and firearms, much of what officers and security personnel spend time doing is communication. Soft skills and de-escalation tactics can be practiced on VirTra’s screened solutions or the V-XR® extended reality system. VirTra’s screened simulators allow users to utilize the same tools they do on the field and contain hours upon hours of content. The V-XR utilizes volumetric video characters that display facial expressions and other subtle visual cues, plus is an ideal choice for those with a small training space.
Would you like to learn more about how VirTra’s various simulation training options can help hospital staff and security? Contact a specialist here.
References
- https://www.emergencyphysicians.org/siteassets/emphysicians/all-pdfs/acep-emergency-department-violence-report-2022-abridged.pdf
- https://www.newson6.com/story/65bad8ad5f7d255de6ca3d68/ascension-st-john-security-trains-on-de-escalating-situations-with-virtual-reality-simulator
Extended reality (XR) may be a familiar term, but do you know what differentiates it from other computer-altered reality?
As this article describes it, XR refers to “all real-and-virtual environments generated by computer graphics and wearables” (Irvine, 2017). Basically, it is a mix of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). But what do all those terms mean?
Virtual Reality (VR) is the most used term and refers to all virtually immersive experiences, including 360 video or CGI. The environment is artificial – whether CGI or video – because the user is not actually physically present in what is being displayed. VirTra’s screened simulators also fall under the VR category as well as headset-based solutions.
Augmented Reality (AR) overlaps computer-generated content onto the real world. If you remember the “Pokémon Go” game craze several years ago, that is an example of AR – CGI characters displayed as if they are actually in the real world. You can interact with the displayed objects or characters, but they do not connect with their surroundings.
Mixed Reality (MR) is an overlay of content that interacts with objects in the real world. Like AR, it combines objects from the virtual and physical world. That is the crucial aspect that separates it from AR, where the characters displayed in the environment do not actually interact with their real-world surroundings.
The main difference between Extended Reality and Mixed Reality is that while Extended Reality incorporates all immersive technologies, Mixed Reality is a specific subset of XR that combines digital and real-world objects. In mixed reality, virtual objects are used to enhance the physical world as the user interacts with digital content while still being aware of their physical environment (Khilar, 2022)
V-XR® Extended Reality System
When going back to XR, an umbrella term that refers to the fusion of the three interactions, there is a clear reason why this method would be beneficial from a training standpoint.
In terms of VirTra’s training, XR made the most sense to delve into as it is all-encompassing. Not only does it provide a mix of VR, AR, and MR, but it allows for future expansion as technology becomes further refined. The goal is to provide first responders with realistic training that allows for seamless skill transfer.
VirTra’s V-XR® headset provides three modes of learning that incorporate all types of realities, including the mixing of synthetic and real settings.
The portable, lightweight characteristics make it ideal for smaller departments with limited space. It even accommodates agencies with a smaller number of staff, as there are segments that are self-driven. Most notably, the characters captured in the VirTra Volumetric Video (V3™) studio allow characters to be placed into any environment.
If you are interested in learning more about our newest training tool, contact a product specialist to get information.
References:
Irvine, K. (2020, September 14). XR: VR, AR, mr-what’s the difference? Viget https://www.viget.com/articles/xr-vr-ar-mr-whats-the-difference/
Khillar, S. (2022, May 10). Difference between extended reality and mixed reality. Difference Between. http://www.differencebetween.net/technology/difference-between-extended-reality-and-mixed-reality/
When it comes to policing, communication should not be overlooked as one of the primary training points officers must receive. The flexibility of simulation training can easily provide first responders with options for soft skills training.
You may know of VirTra as the pioneer of the 5-screen simulator. The company is once again venturing into new simulation territory as it has developed the V-XR® extended reality system. This solution stands out among other law enforcement training headsets due to its use of 3D characters. Instead of CGI generated images and characters, those used in V-XR scenarios are created with volumetric capture. This allows users to distinguish facial expressions and other non-verbal cues, plus eliminates the uncanny valley that other CGI-based headset solutions give users.
The primary focus of this new training is on communication, de-escalation, mental illness, situational awareness, community engagement, and autism awareness. All these topics are of great interest to law enforcement agencies around the country and can help both save lives and establish greater trust within their communities.
Educate, Experience, Engage
The V-XR utilizes three concepts of learning: Educate, Engage, and Experience. Each concept provides information on a topic for well-rounded training. In the end, the headset-based V-XR places officers into a realistic scenario to practice the skills they have learned.
“Education” provides officers and trainees with an enhanced lesson plan with voice, images, and videos. This style of explicit learning is far more immersing than textbook and lecture learning provided in a traditional classroom setting.
The next concept of training in the V-XR headset is the “Experience.” After learning from previous concepts, officers using the V-XR will participate in a scenario in a virtual V-300 with rounded screens. Crystal clear imagery and wraparound screens allow users to feel as if they are really part of the scenario being played before their eyes.
The final is “Engage,” where officers will interact with volumetric video characters right in front of them. Unlike CGI characters, you can see their facial expressions to determine if the subject may be prepared to attack or become aggressive. You can spot little details like whether someone has a gun hidden under their shirt. It is also possible to walk around them as if they are truly a person standing before you.
Learn More About Our Solutions
VirTra provides much more than just hardware. Our content is the heart of our training, which is why each scenario, volumetric character, and curriculum is extensively reviewed and tested by our subject matter experts.
The V-XR is available for pre-order and will be available March 2024. To learn more about our newest addition to the product line, contact a specialist.
Delaying the use of force in favor of de-escalation requires good judgment, situational awareness, and frequently, an assumption of risk. In an article by Von Kliem of Force Science, the decision to de-escalate requires officers to balance immediate public safety against the desire to generate voluntary cooperation and avoid the use of force.
Of course, not all subjects are willing or able to be de-escalated. There are not magic words that guarantee an unruly subject will suddenly become compliant. If someone does not want to comply, they won’t. Officers must not only assess the subject’s willingness to de-escalate, they must consider when it has become too dangerous to keep trying. This is where the four C’s of de-escalation come into play: containment, control, contact, and communication.
Containment & Control
Containment refers to limiting the subject to a reasonable area of movement; often while keeping others out. Containment ideally reduces a subject’s chance to access weapons, evidence, or potential victims. Containment also keeps the person close enough for communication, while reducing distractions that can make communication and persuasion difficult.
Even with containment, officers will consider how much “control” they have over the subject. Control simply means the subject in not presenting an imminent threat. The presence of weapons and potential victims can challenge an officer’s ability to use verbal de-escalation and avoid the use of force.
As Von Kliem mentions in the Force Science article referenced earlier, if the only person potentially in harm’s way is the subject themselves, slowing down to set conditions for de-escalation may be the most reasonable approach.
Communication
When most people think of de-escalation, they are imagining verbal communication and body language. The words you choose are important, but so is how you say them. A calm tone of voice may encourage a person to de-escalate, where screaming may have the opposite effect.
Sometimes talking isn’t required at all. It may be that listening is more valuable and that a distressed subject needs to vent before calming down. It can help them feel as if their emotions matter and their opinions are heard.
Contact
Contact is more than just having the subject see and hear you. Officers must consider whether the subject can even understand the messages they are sending. Contact is necessary for the subject to read facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. Physical distance and barriers can impede effective communication, and so can mental impairment that can result from alcohol, drugs, or certain mental health issues.
In police encounters, Kliem mentions that some training recommends that officers create space between themselves and a subject in crisis. When officers choose to create space, they should consider whether that distance might impede communication and de-escalation efforts.
As an officer, you know de-escalation has been a part of policing for decades and that not everyone wants to de-escalate. You know that officers don’t actually de-escalate other people. Instead, they set the conditions that provide the best opportunity and motivation for people to de-escalate themselves. In other words, de-escalation requires cooperation.
VirTra has 2 valuable de-escalation courses that are NCP-certified by IADLEST. They combine classroom learning with hands-on experience in the simulator. The best way to learn a skill is to use it in context – so VirTra allows you to research the topic, then put it into practice in a safe environment. To get started on non-verbal and verbal de-escalation training, contact a specialist.
References:
Kliem, V. (2019, July 25). Containment and de-escalation: The honest debate continues – force science. Force Science – Research | Training | Consulting. https://www.forcescience.com/2019/07/containment-and-de-escalation-the-honest-debate-continues/
Think of how many people a day officers interact with. Being able to effectively communicate, read body language, and calm a situation down are important skills for law enforcement. While not every person can be de-escalated, there are many instances where simple tactics such as using a calm voice and creating distance can make a difference.
Instead of relying on instructors to act as role-players or just learning through bookwork and presentations, simulation of de-escalation in virtual reality training has opened the door for realistic practice engaging with real people.
The Importance of Scenario Branching
If a simulated scenario only has a couple of options and pathways to resolution, it can only be done so many times. Users in the simulator would easily learn what they are “supposed” to do, and the element of predictability would be too strong.
Our multi-incident scenarios of de-escalation in virtual reality training have several branching options, allowing officers flexibility in how they respond and for instructors to change things up depending on the actions of the trainee. If the trainee’s de-escalation tactics are not working, the instructor could choose to make the on-screen character react with hostility. On the other hand, if the officer is effectively communicating, the instructor might allow the scenario to end peacefully.
Why De-Escalation?
As an officer, you’ve heard the word many times. It has become a buzzword, and not always in the right context. Properly de-escalating by using only verbal communication skills can reduce the chances of force being used if the person wants to be de-escalated. This includes using a calm voice, creating distance, avoiding inflammatory language and swearing, and letting the person safely vent.
It is important to note that not every subject can be de-escalated. Some people are too heavily under the influence of illicit substances, and others are simply not willing to cooperate no matter what. This is known by most officers, but the public tends to think you can wave a wand and calm everyone down. In these situations, the officer must do what is necessary to protect themselves, the public, and the subject as well.
De-Escalation in Virtual Reality Training Scenarios
While training for use-of-force incidents is important and should be done, officers rarely fire their weapons. In comparison, officers talk with members of the public many times per shift. In fact, the New York Times reported that 32-37 percent of officers’ shifts involve responding to non-criminal calls. Not only is keeping peace part of their jobs, but they often act as mediators, therapists, and a listening ear. This reality is reflected in the high number of scenarios that involve de-escalation in virtual reality training with VirTra’s simulators.
People can be irate and unruly in many situations, locations, and ways. Maybe it’s during a traffic stop, at a residence, or a public park. In each of these situations, instructors can choose what the subject will say, if they will calm down, or if they will become further enraged. Even in active threat training scenarios, a subject can raise their hands and surrender to officers – not every scenario has to end in lethal force.
VirTra gives instructors and officers alike a flexible way to train for de-escalation in virtual reality. They are able to hone communication skills. Would you like to schedule some time with a representative for more information? Contact a product specialist to learn more.
References
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/19/upshot/unrest-police-time-violent-crime.html
Effective, advanced training comes with a monetary cost. That cost is well worth the lives saved due to the knowledge officers gain from it. For smaller law enforcement agencies or ones that experienced budget cuts, there is a way to acquire training through grant programs.
It is Easy to Get Grant Funding with VirTra Solutions
With a strong need for law enforcement to be trained on specific topics, many grants have requirements to be met for a training solution to fall under its umbrella. De-escalation training and individuals with mental illnesses are topics covered under many training grants in recent years.
VirTra has a strong focus on scenarios that provide non-lethal pathways to resolution. Over 100 scenarios in our library do not require the user to use a firearm. Branching options provide multiple options for officers to take during training, allowing them to use verbal communication skills to de-escalate an irate subject. Additionally, we submit courses through IADLEST’s NCP program for certification accepted by POST in 36 states.
Hours of mental illness and autism awareness coursework is included in our clients’ systems. The scenarios and curriculum provide a strong foundation for officers to recognize the signs that a subject they are interacting with may have a mental illness or be on the autism spectrum. Not only is the recognition important, but knowing how to properly communicate is too. Scenarios allow officers to compassionately settle incidents – whether it is a public disturbance or a person having a mental health crisis.
Another focus is on community relations with a focus on showcasing how the agency trains. Relations can be strengthened through hosting media days, community events, and demonstrations. When community members and stakeholders experience the benefits of simulation training and how it can positively impact public safety, they will feel more secure in the agency that serves them.
The Latest Grants Available
As of now, there are some brand new grant programs that VirTra’s capabilities fit under.
Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bill
This brand new bill announced in July for FY 2024 sets aside $20M for de-escalation training and $10M for mental health and wellness. Click here to get more details about this funding opportunity.
Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program
This program for FY 2023 is specifically for city, county, tribal, and special district agencies. Virtual reality de-escalation training is supported as well. Click here to read more about this opportunity. Keep in mind that the deadline is next month – August 24!
Grant Guides
If your department needs extra help writing grants or researching, VirTra offers the Grant Assistance Program. This program provides instructors with free, one-on-one customized grant help dedicated solely to training simulations and firearm training projects. Instructors can receive help with the entire process—grant research, alert notices, application reviews, etc.—at no cost. Start receiving free grant assistance by clicking here!