How officers handle situations on the ground using the appropriate force to minimise harm.
By: K Shreeyaa
As I gripped the pistol for the first time, it dawned on me that it wasn’t just a weapon; it symbolised the immense responsibility Police officers bear every day.
Police officers operate in a dynamic environment and routinely respond to situations that may require the use of necessary force to ensure public security and safety. Such situations include preventing offences from being committed; arresting suspects; as well as protecting lives and properties.
In December 2024, I was thrilled to participate in a media engagement session on the use of force at the Home Team Academy. Here, I’d get to witness firsthand the rigorous training that officers undergo to keep our streets safe. My heart raced with excitement, knowing I was about to experience a glimpse of what it’s like to become a Police officer.
Learning to Handle a Pistol
The day began in a classroom where seasoned trainers from Training Command (TRACOM) taught us the basics of handling a pistol – which stance to adopt and how to grip, rack, aim and fire. Each step required precision and focus. We were constantly reminded of the seriousness of handling the weapon and to “treat every firearm as live.”
Facing a blank wall, I practised what I’d been taught. I squinted my left eye, held my arms straight and positioned my finger on the pistol’s frame, imagining what it would feel like to respond to imminent danger as an officer.
Precision Under Pressure
The real test began when we entered the firing range; it was my first time inside such a facility. A faint, acrid smell of spent gunpowder lingered in the air.
Each booth was lined up with a paper target. As I stood in the booth, I felt a connection to officers who’d stood here before, honing their skills for the challenges they face on the frontline.
The trainer’s voice brought me back to the moment. “Shooters, watch your front.”
With my heart pounding, I adjusted my stance, steadied my hands and focused on the paper target five metres away. As it turned to face me, I took a sharp breath, drew the pistol out of the holster and fired my first ever round.
Bang! The sound was so intense that I could only exhale after firing the shot.
I missed the target and had taken way too long. The allotted time to draw the pistol and shoot is five seconds; I took seven.
Police officers are trained to protect the public’s safety when responding to incidents. In situations where there’s an imminent threat of grievous hurt or death, officers may have to take decisive action and discharge their firearms to neutralise the threat. That’s why every second counts.
Taming the Taser
Next, the trainers introduced the functionalities and features of the taser to us. They demonstrated the sharp pop of the probes hitting the target, followed by the faint crackle of electricity.
Learning to operate the taser, with its multiple functions, was challenging. The biggest one? Removing the protective cover of the taser cartridge, as my thumbs lacked the necessary strength.
“Aim above the waistline”, the instructor reminded us as we practised.
“Taser, taser!” I yelled, squeezing the trigger. The probes hit the target in the perfect spot, and I was elated with the outcome.
Successfully deploying the taser depends on the probes landing just right. Watching the trainers handle the taser with ease and mastery underscored the importance of both practice and precision.
Determination in the Dojo
The most intense part of the use of force session was the Police Contact Tactics training, during which we had to take down an inebriated and aggressive assailant.
It wasn’t easy to approach the assailant and make the right decisions to de-escalate the situation. We had to assess the threat level and, depending on the assailant’s behaviour, we’d verbally engage him or her first. Coordination and communication with my partner were also important to know when to move in.
I was worried that my small frame would hinder me in subduing the assailant. Yet, taking a confident stance, I shouted, “Sir, please calm down!”
Together with my partner, we swiftly brought him onto the ground: “Down, down, down!”
“Sir, do not resist!”
We immobilised the assailant using wrist locks as he resisted arrest and became more aggressive. This session served as a stark reminder of the rigorous training that officers undergo to learn how to subdue an uncooperative suspect safely.
Commanding the Baton
Lastly, we had a training session with a baton. Again, this was a first for me!
With a firm grip, I raised the baton and practised the deliberate downward flick to extend it fully.
Swish! The baton sprang into its ready position with a satisfying click.
Along with this action, we needed to yell, “Get back!”
The first time I tried this, my voice cracked. Embarrassing.
Determined to impress the trainers, I overcame my nerves; my voice grew more assertive with each new attempt.
During an altercation, officers need to ensure that they maintain a safe distance from assailants to protect themselves. For this training exercise, I spaced myself equally between the two trainers roleplaying as assailants, before swinging the baton in calculated arcs, my arm tensing with each strike.
One minute on the clock felt like an hour. It was a relief when the use of force session finally concluded for the day.
From taking on the pistol and taser to undergoing Police Contact Tactics training and learning to use the baton, I gained a profound respect for officers on the frontline. Through intensive training, they acquire the skills and competencies needed to perform their duties effectively and safely. This includes knowing how to apply use of force options appropriately!
Explore Our Content
Editor's Pick
