2013/12/31 Council Agenda Packet

4 command post vehicle and bearcat if they are properly trained in their operation. III. PHILOSPHY By their nature,tactical operations are complex situations and inherently hazardous. The successful management and resolution of an incident often involves the need for decisions that may affect the safety of persons involved. Due to this,all operational/tactical decision making shall be made based on the priorities of life known as the Safety Priorities. A. Safety Priorities: _ 1. Hostages 2. Innocent Persons/Citizens 3. Police Officers 4. Suspects/Subjects B. The safety of suspects shall be a consideration; however,the life of a suspect shall not take precedence over the life of hostages,innocent persons/citizens, or police officers, regardless of the state of negotiations or any other activity designed to take the suspect into custody. C. Tactical Options The SWAT team shall attempt to use tactics and contingency planning to have options in place to achieve a successful tactical resolution. The following situations and options are not all inclusive and less lethal options shall always be considered. 1. Hostage Situation: In Hostage Situations,negotiations are the preferred method to achieve a resolution;however,the SWAT team should be prepared to execute an immediate tactical option if necessary to protect life. 2. Barricade Situation:Negotiations are the preferred method to achieve a resolution;however,the SWAT team may also utilize an escalation of options to include, surround and call out,breach and hold, introduction of noise flash diversionary device,introduction of chemical agents and/or less lethal options. IV. CODE OF CONDUCT A. Region 1 SWAT members shall conduct themselves in a professional manner both on and off duty. Any behavior which discredits the member or team and diminishes the effectiveness of either will be grounds for removal. Examples of such behavior include, but are not limited to: Revised 12/2013 10 31