LESSON 2/TASK 1
established, personnel should be allowed to select the shift they desire. Conflicts are resolved through
the use of the guidelines.
Special Shifts
Occasionally it is necessary to temporarily increase the number of MP patrols for special events,
special operations, or selective enforcement. When the on-duty shift cannot meet the added
commitments, it must be augmented.
On-duty hours for regularly scheduled shifts can be increased so that they will overlap with the on-
coming shifts for special situations. For example, on New Year's eve, if the midnight shift reports for
duty at 2200 hours and the evening shift is retained until 0200 hours, the number of patrols can be
approximately doubled during the most troublesome period.
An extra fourth shift can be formed to overlap two regular shifts. This fourth shift does not have to be
organized as a regular squad, but may be of whatever size the PM feels is necessary. It would be
subordinate to regular shift supervisors. For example, the PM may desire to apply a selective
enforcement campaign against drunk drivers. Most of these offenses occur from 1800-0200 hours. He
could employ a fourth shift of six MP organized into three patrols during this period. This extra shift
would not have regular patrol areas, but concentrate on areas frequented by drunk drivers.
CONCLUSION
In this lesson, you have learned some of the basic techniques used to determine both manpower
requirements and distribution for a patrol force. The key consideration is to base the distribution of your
patrol force on thoughtful and insightful analysis of all available information. If you feel you have a good
grasp of the material, turn the page and try the practice exercise. If there is some doubt concerning
some of the material, review it before trying the practice exercise.
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