LESSON 3/TASK 1
o Assigns a back-up patrol, if required. An MP should never enter a residence alone.
Patrol
Crisis intervention is a very difficult and dangerous task. Persons involved are overexcited and highly
emotional. Their actions are highly unpredictable. Safety of the MP, and others, must be a primary
consideration. Domestic disturbances are never "routine" calls. The danger to the responding MP can
be substantially reduced by preparing ahead of time.
All available information pertaining to the situation should be provided to the patrol by the desk
sergeant. The responding patrol should use their previous experience and training to begin to form a
tentative plan of action prior to arrival on the scene. You must also anticipate and be prepared for the
unexpected. As the situation develops, the plan should be modified accordingly. Always remember,
these situations are highly volatile and no two of them will unfold exactly alike. You, and your plan,
must be highly flexible.
The patrol responding to the incident should avoid making noise that announces their arrival at the
scene. The approach of the MP vehicle is usually the first sign to one of the disputants that the MP
have been called. If the disputants are prone to violence, the sound or sight of an approaching MP
vehicle allows them time to prepare for police arrival. Upon arrival at the scene, the vehicle should be
parked one house away, if possible.
Approach
The approach and parking of your vehicle should be done in such a manner so as not to draw attention.
There is always the danger that the MP may be assaulted between the time of arrival and the time they
reach the door. Visually check windows and doors for unusual movement or objects while approaching
the residence. Look for cover and concealment as you approach, in case something does happen.
Flashlights should not be shined at the windows of the residence. This provides warning to the
disputants. Only the MP in front should use a flashlight to avoid silhouetting the other MP.
MP will always stand to one side of the door; never in front of it. Before knocking or ringing the bell,
listen at the door for 15 to 30 seconds. You may be able to tell the nature of the disturbance and
whether or not it is violent
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