The police training in North Carolina requires cadets to learn many things to ensure citizen safety, as well as their own. One aspect of this police training is driving. While officers are trained on what to expect and safety practices on the road, the League’s defensive driving course recognizes the need for a more in-depth training experience. “We need to think more about what we’re doing and realize that these decisions that we’re making have a huge impact. We’re trying to change that culture, getting officers to slow down … give themselves a safety buffer that sometimes we didn’t do in the past,” Hampton continues. “One of the most inherently dangerous things that cops do is drive cars,” said Joseph Graziano, NCLM public safety risk management consultant. “We want everyone to be safe, whether it’s the community or the officer driving the car. Taking subtle changes along the way when they are responding at a high rate of speed or in a high-stress pursuit, they can successfully do that.” The League continues to develop and implement training for its members where it is needed most. The “Defensive Driving: Slower is Faster” course has proven to be an invaluable resource for police departments across North Carolina. By equipping officers with advanced driving techniques and safety practices, the course is helping reduce accidents and enhance road safety. Officers return to their departments with new skills and a fresh perspective, spreading safer driving habits throughout their departments. The hands-on experience and expert instruction are making a tangible difference, leading to improved driving standards and fewer incidents. As the League continues to support these training efforts, the commitment to safer roads and more effective policing remains strong. continued from page 25 One of the most inherently dangerous things that cops do is drive cars. We want everyone to be safe, whether it’s the community or the officer driving the car. Taking subtle changes along the way when they are responding at a high rate of speed or in a high-stress pursuit, they can successfully do that. » Joseph Graziano, NCLM Public Safety Risk Management Consultant RMS Update SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 3 2024 26
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