4. Roadblocks.
Roadblocks are used to seal off areas in which a crime has been committed or to apprehend violators.
They are also used to seal off access to roads. This is often necessary when special events such as
parades and training demonstrations are taking place.
5. Detours.
Traffic control at detour or construction sites may be required to avoid motorist confusion and
congestion. Operations are the same as for a defile operation in a tactical environment. Normally, the
organization doing the work at a site will provide its own control personnel. MPs advise and assist
them, particularly during periods of heavy traffic.
When operating a detour, use the following guidelines:
o Route traffic to the right side of the road when possible.
o Separate heavy traffic such as trucks from passenger cars if the roadnet is limited or if bridges
are restricted.
o Reduce speed limits.
o Supervise traffic flow to prevent the tendency of drivers to bunch up, which often causes rear end
collisions.
o Identify and mark alternate and bypass routes well in advance so vehicle operators can avoid the
detour area.
o Use one-way traffic if no bypass is possible.
6. Summary.
We have discussed planning the patrol areas for traffic law enforcement. This discussion included--
o Personnel assets.
o Geographical size of patrol areas.
o The relationship of historical data to the decision-making process.
Selective enforcement in a traffic law enforcement context was also discussed. Much of the discussion
on patrols was presented in earlier lessons and recapped in this lesson.
Special requirements applicable to the traffic section were determined. These included special events,
roadblocks, and detours.
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MP2000