Firearms Reality-Based Training

About the Program

Category: Personnel Management, Employment and Training (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

The Maricopa County Adult Probation Department integrated technology, officer debrief and video review, stress management, tactical breathing, mental imagery and heart rate data correlated to a nationally recognized heart rate/performance chart into the department’s annual Firearms Reality-Based Training. The intent was to help officers understand how to optimize their performance in a critical incident. Officers participated in one drill and one scenario involving use of force. They carried training equipment to simulate their duty equipment, including OC Spray, Expandable Baton, Handcuffs and Firearm (with a non-lethal training ammunition). They were fitted with a heart rate monitor, which transmitted real time data to an iPad used by an instructor to chart the officer’s heart rate at key points in the drill and scenario. Officers and Role Players also wore a Taser Axon helmet-mounted camera during the entire training. Following completion of the drill and scenario, the officer debriefed with a Firearms Instructor, who reviewed the camera footage and the heart rate chart data. Instructors were able to observe, record, and show students how they were able to effectively manage their heart rate and respiration during the training, which resulted in more effective and efficient engagement of role players.