Patrol Tactics and De-Escalation

Patrol Tactics 24-Hour In-Service Course

Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC)
Course Overview

The Patrol Tactics 24-Hour In-Service Course incorporates the Five Overarching Principles of Legal Authority, Threat Management, Position and Movement, Communication and Equipment management to enhance law enforcement officers’ decision-making and de-escalation skills in accordance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 139-11 and the Attorney General Model Use of Force Policy. The course integrates scenario-based training to improve officer safety, de-escalation skills, critical life-saving skills, and public trust.

Course Goals & Learning Objectives

This training aims to increase officer safety, reduce the likelihood of force applications, and enhance critical thinking in law enforcement contacts.

Key Training Areas

1. Scene Safety & Pace Control
   • Strategies to assess, manage, and control critical incidents.
   • Use of Time, Distance, and Shielding to mitigate risk.
2. Legal Decision-Making & Tactical Application
   • Making sound legal decisions during community contacts.
   • Effective positioning, movement, and threat assessment.
3. Communication & De-escalation
   • Enhancing communication skills to increase the options for resolving incidents and reduce the likelihood of injury to all parties involved.
4. Patrol Operations & Response Tactics
   • Conducting safe vehicle contacts, person contacts, and structure clearing.
5. Behavioral Health Response
   • Recognizing and managing mental health crises and substance abuse disorders.
   • Utilizing appropriate resources and intervention techniques.
6. Use of Force & Officer Safety Strategies
   • Understanding force application within legal parameters.
   • Practicing high-risk handcuffing, position and movement, equipment management, and threat management.
7. Critical Life Saving Skills
   • Performing critical first aid to prevent loss of life.
   • Enhancing officers’ ability to stabilize medical emergencies before EMS arrival.

Prerequisites

• Washington State Peace Officer Certification is required for enrollment.

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