CHOIS Connection is published quarterly by Christian Homeschoolers Of Idaho State.
This article appeared in a previous issue.
CHOIS Connection
Discovering Idaho
by Connie Seward
"Public Safety Field Trip"
Summer 2009
If your children are fascinated by the bright flashing lights and loud sirens associated with police cars, then they would probably enjoy a trip to the local police station. They can be entertained by the whirling lights while receiving an education on public safety.
This article features the Meridian Police Department based on a glowing report from Jeremiah Patchin who was a recent field trip participant. However, many other city or county police stations welcome student visitors and will be happy to give you and your family a tour of their department.
"The Meridian Police Department serves the fastest growing city in the State of Idaho. The department consists of 80 sworn officers and 26 non-sworn staff members who are dedicated to their community and its values. The department's mission is to provide the highest quality service in partnership with the community to preserve and project life and property through educations, prevention, and enforcement."
As part of their mission in education, MPD gives student tours and conducts a yearly Public Safety Academy for adults. Though Meridian does not provide a safety academy for youth, my hometown of Boise does, so be sure and check with your local police department. *(see note below)
Jeremiah visited MPD with his Centennial junior varsity defense foot team and was treated to a "behind the scene" education on the teamwork involved in policing. After a brief orientation, the football players were given a live presentation by the K-9 unit. The students watched as a handler and dog maneuvered through a series of possible crime scenarios. They were able to witness a successful attack, an attack called off, and a scene where the dog was given special instructions to attack a public safety offender but not a nearby officer. "Meridian's K-9 team works hard every day to reduce the use and presence of illegal drugs in its community and to assist with the apprehension of dangerous criminals. All of the K-9's are certified in narcotics detection and patrol skills. The department's team is made up of three officer/K-9 teams." Malinois dogs are used by two of the teams while the remaining team uses a black Labrador.
Jeremiah and his friends were then able to participate in some "hands on" education. The athletes were given "blue guns" which are model guns that are weighted and shaped exactly like the officers real guns. They were then divided into teams and given instructions on SWAT procedures. To the delight of the students, each team was able to practice the special tactics used in clearing a room or hall during a potentially volatile emergency situation. But best of all, according to Jeremiah, was the opportunity to take the place of officers in a mock high risk stop. Students, working three to a team, used police cars and bull horns in an attempt to quickly talk suspects into a safe surrender.
Even if your local police station doesn't have all the "bells and whistles" of a hands on learning experience, your children will be rewarded with the opportunity to learn more about the individuals who are dedicated to keeping us safe. There are many aspects of policing that are interesting. Check out the crime lab, detective department or the emergency switchboard room.
CONTACT INFORMATION
*Boise City Citizen Police Academy has two separate programs, one for youth and one for adults. The adult programs are held twice a year, while the youth program runs through the summer. Both programs give an informative overview of every department within the police force.
If interested, apply well in advance as there is a waiting list. I graduated several years ago from Boise's academy and thoroughly enjoyed my time, especially the hands on learning experiences. We watched SWAT snipers in action and participated in mock SWAT maneuvers, used police guns (the real deal) on a shooting range (I can hit the bulls eye!) rode with officers during their work shifts, and drove their cars (on two wheels!) around cones on a training courses.
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[Quotes taken from
Meridian City Police]
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