Not too long ago, we were thrilled to sponsor a free webinar for the law enforcement community on Officer.com. The webinar was presented by Colonel Tim Alben of the Massachusetts State Police (retired) and Crisis/Emergency Management Training Specialist, Christopher Tarantino, MEP CMCP.
As part of the marketing team, I am used to promoting the goods and services L-Tron provides. But this webinar was different. It was about giving back to the law enforcement community by providing free training on a critical safety issue. L-Tron’s CEO states “We strongly value the law enforcement community. We want to express our gratitude by providing educational opportunities on best practices whenever possible.” We have funded and conducted research for over two years on this topic with a goal of developing best practices surrounding using technology to help keep officers safe. Very cool!
So, now to the webinar.
Titled, “Distracted Patrol: Managing the 21st Century Technology Tightrope,” the webinar explored:
- The history of law enforcement technology (the dated photos of old patrol cars were fun to see)
- Technology distractions that exist today, along with current statistics
- Safety training – types that exist currently and what is still needed
- Simple tips for increasing officer safety
[Watch] the Webinar here, click below:
The History
Decades ago, the old patrol cars were the Crown Victoria’s and other full-sized sedans, equipped with a radio and emergency lighting and warning controls. That’s it.
Today, there are all types of patrol cars, but many of them have shrunk in headroom and driver compartment space.
These patrol cars typically have:
- MDT (Mobile Data Terminals), complete with computer screen and keyboard,
- Cruiser-Mounted Radio,
- Lo-Jack Receiver,
- Mobile Printer,
- Driver’s License Scanner,
- Carried Equipment (firearm, body armor, ammunition pouch, OC spray, handcuffs, baton, taser, flashlight, portable radio, body-worn video system),
- And many officers even carry their own personal GPS and cell phone with them in the vehicle.
Click to view full [Infographic].
If you think about it, today’s patrol vehicles are really more of an “office space on wheels,” contributing greatly to each officer’s ability to be efficient and productive while on duty, but there is a balance to strike between having the right technology and preventing officer distraction.
To learn more, watch the webinar in its entirety and share it with your fellow officers. We truly hope this material will help your agency move forward with current technology as safely as possible.
Looking for more resources on this topic? Click below to learn more.
Questions? We’d love to hear from you!
Call 800-830-9523 or 
Email info@L-Tron.com
About the Author:
Carmella Giancursio is L-Tron’s Public Relations Specialist & Content Editor. When she’s not working, spending time with her husband, or taking care of her 3 young kids, she can be found in the kitchen, channeling her Italian heritage!