Weiss/Davis -- Safety Forces Writers

The Weiss-Davis writing team has had articles and photos
published in a variety of magazines:

Law and Order	Tactical Response	EMS Magazine
Fire Chief Magazine	EMS Product News	Law Officer
Police Marksman	The Florida Trooper	Oklahoma State Trooper
The Tactical Edge	Police Fleet Manager	National Fire and Rescue
Men's Workout	Exercise & Health	Knives Illustrated
Bird Talk	The Journal of Counter Terrorism (IACSP)	True Crime (England)
American Cop	MPRA Quarterly (Military Police Regimental Assoc.)

Published Articles
This list may not be complete, since it changes often.
(Some listings below contain links to the full article.)

Hands-on, Professionally Tested

Three top chef's knives -- the Shun, MAC's Mighty MAC, and Chris Reeve's Sikayo -- are put to the test and rated by three commercial chefs in their restaurant kitchens.

Knives Illustrated, November 2011 issue

The Necessity of Local Law Enforcement Officers to be Special Operations Capable in the Post 9/11/01 World

The need for all officers to be trained in special operations beyond patrol response because local police are now the front lines of homeland security and counterterrorism efforts in the continental United States.

The Journal of Counter Terrorism, Fall 2011 issue
Written with Mark Allen Prince

Top Tactical Folder: The Extrema Ratio 185 RAO Tactical Knife

Assessment and field evaluation of the knife-of-choice for the Italian Special Ops, including how to spot counterfeits (written with custom knife maker Paul Granger)

Knives Illustrated, October 2011 issue

Combat-designed: The Gerber LHR Fighter

Custom knife maker's review and tough field evaluation of a knife design based on the lessons soldiers learned through more than 900 documented real-life experiences in close-quarters combat with firearms, knives, and hand-to-hand.

Knives Illustrated, August 2011 issue

German Police Water Cannon Trucks

About the trucks and how they are used, especially during the Gorleben nuclear waste movement protests that have mixed very dangerous radical rioters with peaceful demonstrators since 1995.

The Journal of Counter Terrorism, Summer 2011 issue

Dual Purpose Blackhawk Tactical Defense Razorback Trocar

A tactical Knife that also works well as a concealed-carry tactical medic's knife.

Knives Illustrated, July 2011 issue

Trends in Mobile Command Centers

A look at current trends in mobile command centers, from vehicle sizes and equipment, to features and funding.

Law and Order, June 2011 issue
Also cover photo

K-9 and SWAT Training Together

To increase safety during tracking searches, the Clearwater Police Department has implemented training involving both its SWAT and K-9 units.

Tactical Response, May/June 2011 issue

A Knife Named Pacific

Chris Reeve Knives and Bill Harsey, Jr. produce the civilian version of the Special Forces 1st Group Knife.

Knives Illustrated, May/June 2011 issue

BLACKHAWK! Dynamic Entry Mini Deployment Bag

A dynamic entry equipment bag developed to provide a lighter, more portable breaching tool kit for entries, active shooter callouts, rapid response situations, etc.

Law and Order, May 2011 issue

Police Armored Rescue Vehicles: Tactical Rescue Considerations

Rescue tactics and training, and the ARV.

The Florida Trooper, Spring 2011 issue
Written with Bob O'Brien

Rugged and Reliable: The Kershaw Zero-Tolerance Military Knife 0100

Overview and field evaluation of the fixed-blade, Zero Tolerance knife made for the "dark places."

Knives Illustrated, April 2011 issue

Mobile Rifle Armor Protective Shield (MRAPS)

A look at the recently released, lightweight MRAPS from Baker Ballistics.

Law and Order, March 2011 issue

New in Less-Lethal: When you can't shoot, have a backup option

Less-lethal devices can be useful in dealing with violent subjects. The article looks at some of the latest products in the less-lethal arena.

Law and Order, March 2011 issue
Tactical Response, May/June 2011 issue

Hawke's Hellion Survivor 2020

A close-up review of a maximum-use survival/tactical knife from TOPS.

Knives Illustrated, February 2011 issue

Bereitscaftpolizei: Germany's Readiness (Riot) Police

The history, organization, vehicles, and specialized units of Bepo.

The Journal of Counter Terrorism, Winter 2011 issue

Tips for Mobile Command Centers

What you need to know when planning and purchasing an MCC for your agency..

Law and Order, September 2010 issue

Ballistic Shield Commands and Tactics

While ballistic shields do not make tactical officers or deputies invincible, what they can do is more important than what they cannot do.

Counter Terrorism, Summer 2010 issue

Dan Mink's Custom-Made Fishing Knives

Interview and field test of filleting knives made by the "dean" of Florida fillet knife-makers, Dan Mink.

Knives Illustrated, August 2010 issue

Bundespolizei: Germany's Federal Police

The federal police force of Germany has evolved over the decades, from the BGS, which was primarily concerned with border protection, to the BPOL, which represents a more multifaceted police agency.

Law and Order, July 2010 issue

Bavarian State Police, Germany: Use of Police Helicopters

Nearly 95 percent of the helicopter squadron's night missions are searches for missing people, crime fighting actions, and pursuit. Helicopters with all of their technical equipment are especially suited for rescue situations in the Alps.

Counter Terrorism, May 2010 issue

Tactical Rifle Instructor

Firearms training is about more than shooting accuracy. The article follows North Miami, FL, Police firearms instructors as they attend a tactical rifle course presented by Strategos International.

Tactical Response, March-April 2010 issue

Field Evaluation: The Elishewitz F.T.W.S Knife

The all-new, recon-veteran-inspired tactical knife (F.T.W.S. stands for "For Those Who Serve") is put through an extreme field test.

Knives Illustrated, March 2010 issue

BATT Series of Police Armored Rescue Vehicles

The Armored Group has established itself as a leading builder of Armored Rescue Vehicles, and suspects know a SWAT team means business when they see a BATT (Ballistic Armored Tactical Transport) ARV in action.

Tactical Response, January 2010 issue

SWAT Round-Up International: Insights

Insights into the events of the annual SWAT Round-Up International in Orlando, Florida, given by members of various teams who competed in 2009.

Tactical Response, January 2010 issue

SWAT Round-Up International 2009

The annual SWAT Round-Up International in Orlando, Florida, brings experts together for instruction and lessons from actual case studies, and reveals new and innovative tactics that other teams have employed.

Tactical Response, January 2010 issue

Benchmade's 585 Mini-Barrage and 580 Barrage Folding Knives

The first folders with both the AXIS lock and spring assist are reviewed and field tested.

Tactical Response, November-December 2009 issue

Law Enforcement Response to the Active Shooter

Any tactical team, individual law enforcement officer, or counter terrorism team has a major issue to address when responding to an active shooter. Which will they be: hunter or prey? Specialized training can make the difference.

Counter Terrorism, November 2009 issue

Neil Roberts Warrior Knife

The creation and field test of a functional Chris Reeve tactical knife made as a tribute to the first Navy SEAL killed in Afghanistan.

Knives Illustrated, September 2009 issue

Shooting from Police Naval Platforms

A look at the duties of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's Marine Unit, and how it trains to shoot accurately while overcoming the effects of choppy water.

Tactical Response, July 2009 issue

COBRA: Austria's Special Police Commandos

Einsatzkommando COBRA is a police anti-terrorism/SWAT-type unit of the Austrian Federal Police. The article concerns how this elite team is used in tactical situations and in cases of terrorism and kidnapping.

Law and Order, July 2009 issue

Survival Stress Research and Post-Event Memory

After an officer-involved shooting, giving the officer time to calm down, sleep, and reflect upon what happened is critical in post-event memory retention and accurate report writing.

Tactical Response, May-June 2009 issue

Ordering Uniform Patches

How uniform patches are made, the variety available, discussion of ordering and pricing, and helpful hints to make the process easier.

Law and Order, May 2009 issue

The Mark Lee Glory Knife

History of the Benchmade knife honoring the first Navy SEAL killed in Iraq, including review of the knife by a custom knife maker and a field evaluation.

Knives Illustrated, May 2009 issue

Police Armored Rescue Vehicles: Tactical Rescue Considerations

The four essential ingredients to successful rescues under fire: 1) Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), 2) Armored rescue vehicles (ARVs), 3) Tactical Emergency Medical Service (TEMS), and 4) Emergency Medical Service (EMS).

Tactical Response, March 2009 issue

Up Close at the 2009 SHOT Show

Report on law enforcement-related equipment introduced at the 2009 National Shooting Sports Foundation's annual conference, the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show.

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 --- Tactical Response, March-April 2009 issue

Israeli Combat Point Shooting

In response to the hooded terrorist or the stealthy bomb setter, police and military response must be fast, efficient, and professional. One methodology especially studied by other countries is Israeli Combat Point Shooting or ICPS.

Counter Terrorism Magazine, February 2009 issue

Delivery Not Included: How One Agency Brought an Airplane Home

When the Hillsborough County (FL) Sheriff's Office was given a free, stripped Boeing 727 to use for training, they had to figure out how to get it from the Orlando airport to their rural training facility nearly 100 miles away.

American COP Magazine, January-February 2009 issue

Tac-Cat, the Tactical Caterpillar

The Tac-Cat, a multi-terrain, tracked vehicle with TAC ballistic steel armor, can be used in many creative ways by SWAT teams and bomb squads to deal with some sticky situations.

Tactical Response, January-February 2009 issue

SWAT Round-Up International 2008

Details on the events and results of the international competition, as well as how teams from the 2008 SWAT Round-Up prepared for the competition and what helped them succeed.

Events -- Insights

Tactical Response, January-February 2009 issue

Tactics for Police Armored Rescue Vehicles

Tactics for armored rescue vehicles, which are becoming more and more prevalent in the U.S. in hostage situations, with barricaded suspects, and in riot control.

Tactical Response, January-February 2009 issue

Buying a Bomb Truck Part IV: The Delivery

The final installment in the series that follows an agency as they research and have their custom bomb truck constructed.

Police Fleet Manager, January-February 2009 issue

H&K's P30

Information and field evaluation of Heckler and Koch's newly introduced P30 pistol.

Law and Order, January 2009 issue

U.S. Army's 89th MP Brigade: Mission in Iraq

A look at how our troops are working hard to transition the Iraqi police from instruments of the state to instruments of the people.

MPRA Quartery, Winter 2009 issue (reprint)

American Bail Agents: Are They Really Like Dog the Bounty Hunter?

A realistic look at bail bonds agents and their job.

True Crime (England), December 2008 issue

Israeli Combat Point Shooting

Police and military response to terrorists must be fast, efficient, and professional. Because of Israeli experience in this area, other countries are studying their techniques, especially Israeli Combat Point Shooting or ICPS.

Counter Terrorism, Winter 2008-2009 issue

Rex Applegate: An Expert in Many Fields

Biography of Col. Rex Applegate, including his close-quarters combat (CQC) training and the development of the Applegate-Fairbairn knives.

Knives Illustrated, December 2008 issue

Lt. Col. Rex Applegate's Knives

Information about the Gerber Applegate-Fairbairn Covert Double Bevel and Gerber Applegate-Fairbairn Combat Folder Green knives, including review of the Combat Folder by a custom knife maker and field evaluation of the Covert Double Bevel.

Knives Illustrated, December 2008 issue

Policing Protestors

With the proper preparation, communication, and leadership, police departments of any size can handle a large protest situation successfully.

Law and Order, November 2008 issue

Diabetes Heartbreak

A look at parrot diabetes and its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Bird Talk, November 2008 issue

CBP Border Patrol, Yuma

A look at a day in the life of U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers and the challenges they encounter on a regular basis.

Law and Order, October 2008 issue

Ballistic Shields Tactics

The alternative techniques Strategos International offers after staff members decided that many tactical teams move too slowly, especially when clearing a large area.

Law and Order, October 2008 issue

Gerber LMF II Infantry/ASEK Knives

Field evaluation and custom knife maker's comments about a sought-after tactical and survival knife designed with the military and law enforcement in mind.

Knives Illustrated, October 2008 issue

US Army's 89th MP Brigade: Mission in Iraq

A look at how our troops are working hard to transition the Iraqi police from instruments of the state to instruments of the people.

Counter Terrorism, Fall 2008 issue

Austria's New Glock Field Knives: The M78 and M81

The M78 and M81 are reviewed and field tested by a custom knife maker and a tough evaluator.

Knives Illustrated, August 2008 issue

German Police Vehicles

The article explores how German police vehicles -- including cars, specialty vehicles, water cannons (wasserwerfer), and armored vehicles -- are selected, produced, and equipped.

Law and Order, July 2008 issue

Historic Mission in Iraq by the 89th Military Police Brigade

The 89th Military Police Brigade is helping to train and equip Iraqi Police to successfully perform traditional policing and law enforcement duties in Iraq.

The Florida Trooper, Summer 2008 issue

War Games! The SWAT Round-Up: Only the Strong Thrive & Survive
plus The SWAT Workout

The Clearwater (FL) Police Department SWAT team is followed as it prepares and trains for the International SWAT Round-Up competition. And the exercises of the SWAT Workout are demonstrated.

Men's Workout, June 2008 issue

Establishing a Chaplaincy Program

A chaplaincy program gives police officers somewhere to turn when they need help dealing with the stressful and depressing factors of police work.

Law and Order, April 2008 issue

Guidelines for Armored Rescue Vehicles

When an agency orders an armored vehicle, mechanical, comand and control, construction, ballistics, and crew considerations must be kept in mind.

Tactical Response, January-February 2008 issue

Buying a Bomb Truck Part III: The Pre-build Conference

There are many options to consider and processes to go through when buying a custom bomb truck. This series follows an agency as they research and have their custom bomb truck constructed.

Police Fleet Manager, January-February 2008 issue

The Rook, a Different Kind of Tactical Vehicle

The Rook is a small, tracked armored vehicle that can be used to deploy officers to the second floor of a structure, breach doors and windows, raise a vehicle, or maneuver inside a building with precision.

Tactical Response, January-February 2008 issue

SWAT Round-Up 2007: The 25th Anniversary

The annual international SWAT competition pits the best of the best from police departments, sheriff's offices and other law enforcement agencies all over the world against each other in a week-long series of events and classes.

Tactical Response, January-February 2008 issue

Insights into the SWAT Round-Up Event

Various teams competing in the Round-Up share their insights and training secrets to help make world-wide law enforcement agencies the best that they can be. In this article, teams from Germany, several places in Florida, and Brazil talk about their preparation for the event.

Tactical Response, January-February 2008 issue

Smith & Wesson M&P45

The new Smith & Wesson M&P45 is a .45 caliber version of the company's Military & Police (M&P) Series of advanced-design, polymer pistols. The article describes the gun and the evaluation conclusions of an armorer and a competitive shooter.

Law and Order, January 2008 issue

SWAT'S Happening: Training with a Superfit Military Man

An exercise program developed by a SWAT officer keeps his team fit and can do the same for anyone, no matter what their fitness level -- without expensive equipment.

Exercise & Health, Winter 2007-2008 issue

Police Motorcycle Instructor

The University of North Florida's Institute of Police Technology and Management in Jacksonville, Florida provides advanced motorcycle operations courses to state troopers, sheriff's deputies and police officers.

Law and Order, January 2008 issue

Point Shooting is Natural

What happens to an officer's nervous system when he or she encounters a high-stress situation? The studies of Bruce Siddle measure the human factor in combat with interesting results.

Tactical Response, November-December 2007 issue

Training Tactical Medics

Special-ops teams need specialized medical support, and this specialized Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) training was conducted in a week-long, hands-on course based on lessons drawn from the military.

EMS Magazine, October 2007 issue

Glock M78 and M81 Field Knives

A review and evaluation of the new Glock fixed-bladed knives.

Tactical Response, September-October 2007 issue

Get Spoiled by a BRAT (Brush Rapid Attack Truck)

There's more to buying a brush truck than just ordering it. East Lake Fire Rescue (Pinellas County, Florida) shares its experiences and gives helpful hints for ordering a custom vehicle.

National Fire and Rescue, July/August 2007 issue

Tactical Medic Scenario Training

High-stress training helps the medics who accompany SWAT teams learn to function well in real high-stress situations, such as rescuing downed officers or civilians while under fire.

The Tactical Edge, Summer 2007 issue

Buying a Bomb Truck Part II: Preparing for the Pre-build Meeting

There are many options to consider and processes to go through when buying a custom bomb truck. This series follows an agency as they research and have their custom bomb truck constructed.

Police Fleet Manager, July-August 2007 issue

Medics Under Fire

As law enforcement becomes more dangerous, fire and rescue agencies are training in tactical combat-casualty care.

Fire Chief, July 2007 issue

Continuity of Operation When Disaster Strikes

Agencies must have plan to continue the operations of their department if their headquarters building is inoperable. This article looks at how the Tarpon Springs (FL) Police Department, the Clearwater (FL) Police Department, and the City of Clearwater plan to house, feed, pay, and communicate with their personnel in the event of a disaster, making it easier for them to carry out their mission of protecting the public.

Law and Order Magazine, July 2007 issue

Elevated Tactics Ramps

Folding and retractable ramps attached to vehicles can make access to second floors and over walls and fences easier and faster.

Tactical Response Magazine, May-June 2007 issue

Bomb Tent

A small tent and special foam contain a bomb blast and eliminate flying debris, keeping bomb technicians, the public, and surrounding buildings from harm.

Law and Order Magazine, May 2007 issue

2007 SHOT Show

The 2007 SHOT Show (Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show) held in Orlando, Florida included a growing law enforcement section where exhibitors displayed their newest products, everything from body armor to tactical medical kits to weapons.

Tactical Response Magazine, May-June 2007 issue
Law and Order Magazine, May 2007

Operation Loaded Dice

Three nighttime mock explosions went off in two malls and a medical center in Las Vegas, heralding simultaneous training scenarios in an exercise called “Operation Loaded Dice.” About 1,000 first responders, government officials, volunteers, evaluators, and participants were involved. By using functioning malls, first responders had the opportunity to practice their skills in real-world locations instead of simulated sites.

Law and Order Magazine, May 2007 issue

Buying a Bomb Truck - Part 1

There are many options to consider and processes to go through when buying a custom bomb truck. This series will follow an agency as they research and have their custom bomb truck constructed.

Police Fleet Manager Magazine, March-April 2007 issue

Neil Blackwood, Knife-maker

Neil Blackwood is a custom knife maker who also designed the Rukus series knives for Benchmade Knife Company.

Tactical Response Magazine, March-April 2007 issue

Dark House

Hillsborough County (FL) Sheriff's Office has a new Dark House, an indoor range where darkness is dominant. In this building, nighttime training can be accomplished in a safe environment day or night, allowing shooters to become accustomed to muzzle flashes and officers to practice firing in almost total darkness

Law and Order Magazine, March 2007 issue

Fit for Duty and Life: A Workout for Everyone

A SWAT fitness trainer has designed the SWAT Workout, a 20-minute exercise program that anyone can do no matter what their fitness level or age.

Law Officer Magazine, March 2007 issue

SWAT Round-Up 2006

Sixty-nine law enforcement and military teams registered to compete in the 2006 SWAT competition. These included teams from the United States as well as from Dubai, South Korea, Spain, Canada, Kuwait, Bosnia, Hungary, Sweden and Germany.

Tactical Response Magazine, January-February 2007 issue
(includes cover photo)

SWAT Round-Up International 2006: Team Insights

As teams compete against each other, they also share training tips, techniques and equipment selection information.

Tactical Response Magazine, January-February 2007 issue
(includes cover photo)

The Hunter Response to an Active Shooter

First responder training by Strategos International teaches the St. Cloud (FL) Police Department how to deal with an active shooter using force-on-force and physical conflict resolution (PCR) principles and tactics.

Law and Order Magazine, November 2006 issue

Creating a Custom Rescue Vehicle
How Oldsmar (FL) Fire Rescue, a small department, designs and funds an advanced life support vehicle custom-made to address the special needs of the town.

EMS Product News, November/December 2006 issue
(includes cover photo)

Setting the Tactical Scene
Scenario training delivers the physical and psychological tools tactical medics require to handle life-threatening situations.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Magazine, November 2006 issue
(includes cover photo)

Dragging Downed Personnel to Safety May Increase Survival Rates
When there's gunfire and tactical medics must extract a wounded officer or other patient as quickly as possible, dragging is faster than carrying the patient to cover. The Draggin' Rescue Device is a simple, effective, comfortable and lightweight solution.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Magazine, November 2006 issue

Competitive Benefits
It can be hard to replicate the high stakes of vehicular extrication during training, but that problem goes away when a rescue team enters a competition. This article follows award-winning Palm Harbor (FL) Fire Rescue's extrication team as it trains for national and international competitions.

Fire Chief Magazine, September 2006 issue

Bringing the Boeing 727 Home
The Hillsborough County (FL) Sheriff's Office was given a donated, stripped, and engineless Boeing 727 to use for anti-terrorism training. The problem was how to move the plane from Orlando to the training facility located in a rural area over 100 miles away.

The Florida Trooper Magazine, Summer 2006 issue

Training SWAT Medics
When a SWAT team goes into a dangerous situation, fire rescue EMTs and medics often accompany them. How are these medics trained to be an integral part of the SWAT team and what are their duties?

Tactical Response Magazine, May/June 2006 issue

EOD 9 Bomb Suit
Med-Eng recently introduced a new and innovative EOD 9 suit and helmet that provides protection against blast, over pressure, fragmentation, impact, heat and flame.

Law and Order Magazine, May 2006 issue

Cargo Security and the Terrorist Threat
The United States has implemented a series of programs to protect the global supply chain at various stages.

Law and Order Magazine, May 2006 issue

Buckled Up
Fire departments can increase the survival rate of children in motor vehicle crashes by conducting safety seat inspections.

Fire Chief Magazine, May 2006 issue

Shooting with Gas Masks
Exploring tactical training while wearing gas masks, and the difficulty the masks present.

Tactical Response Magazine, March/April 2006 issue

Finland's Police on the Water
Finland's law enforcement officers must patrol the country's seacoast, islands, ports, and many lakes, in addition to policing a country the size of Minnesota and Mississippi combined.

Law and Order Magazine, March 2006 issue

Disaster in the Desert: Rotunda Thunda
A mass-casualty preparedness exercise in Las Vegas involved 78 different local, state and federal agencies, a year of planning, and multiple disasters.

Emergency Medical Services Magazine, February 2006 issue

How to Build a Peacekeeper
When the Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office received two rusted, nonworking government surplus Peacekeeper armored vehicles and the burned-out body of another, they used their ingenuity and built a single working armored vehicle for use in live tactical situations.

Police Fleet Manager Magazine, January/February 2006 issue

SWAT Round-Up 2005: Team Insights
The international SWAT team competition held in Orlando each year challenges participants as well as giving them a chance to learn from other teams.

Tactical Response Magazine, January/February 2006 issue

SWAT Round-Up 2005
Seventy-three teams registered for SWAT Round-Up, including teams from Dubai, Estonia, Bosnia, Hungary, Sweden, Germany, and Spain as well as the United States. Teams attended classes and competed against each other to find the best of the best.

Tactical Response Magazine, January/February 2006 issue

Officer Down Extraction
When an officer is down, the team has the responsibility to extract and treat him, prevent additional casualties and complete the police mission. Techniques for shield-protected pickup and body-carry extraction can mean the difference between life and death.

Police Marksman Magazine, January/February 2006 issue

Facial Recognition Technology in Law Enforcement
Knowing the true identity of an individual who gives false information -- or no information at all -- can save the lives of officers and prison personnel. Facial recognition technology, which quickly matches a current digital photo with photos in databases of millions, may provide the answer.

Law and Order Magazine, October 2005 issue

Mutual Aid When Disaster Strikes
Numerous Florida law enforcement agencies came to the aid of other police departments and sheriff's offices after Hurricane Charley hit the state. The article explores the best ways to respond, and includes suggestions for agencies giving mutual aid after disasters.

Law and Order Magazine, August 2005 issue

Focus on Training
Cover photo
Law and Order Magazine, June 2005 issue

Tactical Watreborne* Operations
Takes Casting Techniques to Helo-Casting
Tactical officers from multiple law enforcement agencies practice jumping from moving boats and a Huey helicopter into the Gulf of Mexico as they learn what must be done in, on or near a water environment.

Publication includes article, accompanying photos and cover photo
The Police Marksman, May-June 2005 issue
* this is the correct spelling of the article title

Tactical EMS 2004 Conference and Exposition
Tactical EMS professionals meet and share their techniques and experiences in offering out-of-hospital medical support to law enforcement tactical teams during training and special operations.

Tactical Response Magazine, May-June 2005 issue

4th Annual Medic Up Competition
The world's largest tactical medical competition, held in Virginia Beach, VA, consists of four "blood in the mud" events using teams made up of four-person tactical units and two-person medical units that have not worked together before.

Tactical Response Magazine, May-June 2005 issue

Maritime Transportation Security Act
When it comes to securing the maritime industry and our nation's waterways, it is clear that the MTSA will have a major impact.

Law and Order Magazine, May 2005 issue

Citizen Survey Protocol
The Clearwater (FL) Police Department uses its biannual "Customer Satisfaction Survey" to receive input -- good and bad -- from the public it serves.

Law and Order Magazine, April 2005 issue

The Senior Services Officer
Largo (FL) Police Department has a specially assigned, pro-active officer to help the city's senior citizens who are at risk from crime, declining living conditions and isolation.

Law and Order Magazine, April 2005 issue

Policing the Oktoberfest
When more than six million people from around the world attend Munich, Germany's Oktoberfest, the Bavarian State Police must keep order.

Publication includes article, accompanying photos and cover photo
Law and Order Magazine, March 2005 issue

Fragmentation Drills
Sheriff's Deputies engage in 22 fast-action, realistic, skill-building drills, each lasting only 20-30 seconds.

Tactical Response Magazine, March-April 2005 issue

The Sheriff's Fleet and Accountability
The Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office fleet manager oversees a a staff of 18 and the purchase, repair and maintenance of 1,260 vehicles.

Police Fleet Manager Magazine, March-April 2005 issue

Bavaria's Emergency Driving Simulator
Bavaria, Germany, police use a driving simulator that contains an actual police car, and creates lifelike sensations of acceleration, braking, and cornering as well as realistic engine and traffic noises.

Law and Order Magazine, March 2005 issue

SWAT Round-Up 2004
International SWAT teams train and compete in Orlando, Florida.

Publication includes article, accompanying photos and cover photo
Tactical Response Magazine, Jan.-Feb. 2005 issue

Boeing 727 Antiterrorism Training Facility
Through multi-agency cooperation, a Boeing 727 airplane is transported over land to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's Practical Training Facility. It becomes the basis for realistic antiterrorism training.

Tactical Response Magazine, Jan.-Feb. 2005 issue

Guns and Ammo of the SWAT Round-Up
The weapons and ammunition various teams choose to use when competing in the SWAT Round-Up have advantages and disadvantages.

Tactical Response Magazine, Jan.-Feb. 2005 issue

Geographic Profiling
Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office specialists use a computer program and their expertise to help detectives solve crimes by pinpointing the area in which the criminal might live.

Law and Order Magazine, December 2004 issue

Police Armored Vehicles
A look at custom built, military surplus, and commercially converted armored vehicles and points to consider when purchasing one for an agency.

Law and Order Magazine, November 2004 issue

SWAT Borrows a Navy
Clearwater (FL) PD SWAT teams up with the Clearwater Fire Department to borrow their "navy" -- two three-seat jet skis and a larger, rigid-hull, inflatable boat -- for practice and training on local waters.

Law and Order Magazine, November 2004 issue

Physical Conflict Resolution (PCR)
PCR is a methodology and viewpoint based on Aikijujitsu and Russian Martial Arts that addresses situations where law enforcement is armed and multiple adversaries exist, who may be armed.

Law and Order Magazine, November 2004 issue

Florida Law Enforcement Challenge
Law enforcement agencies in Florida compete to develop programs that will reduce death and injuries from traffic crashes in their communities through education and enforcement.

Law and Order Magazine, November 2004 issue

Tactical Waterborne Training
A report on training that gives law enforcement officers the tools they need to conduct tactical procedures on, around, or in the water.

Tactical Response, Summer 2004 issue

Winning Low Light Conflicts
A specialized course teaches officers how to prepare for an attacker's deadly assault in low or no light environments.

Tactical Response, Summer 2004 issue

Basic SWAT School
The Clearwater (FL) Police Department hosts a two-weeks training school for future SWAT officers from various law enforcement agencies.

Police Marksman, July/August 2004 issue

School Crisis Israeli-Style
Law enforcement officers learn from Israeli experience immediate response and rapid deployment for an escalated Active Shooter scenario in the school environment.

Law and Order Magazine, June 2004 issue

Project Sentinel
The Clearwater (FL) Police Department uses grant money to fund homeland security training for officers and volunteers as well as conduct community awareness programs.

Law and Order Magazine, June 2004 issue

Problem Shooters with Emphasis on Trigger Control
Law enforcement shooters are identified and taught to overcome their shooting errors through the use of various trigger exercises and modern technology.

Law and Order Magazine, June 2004 issue

Community Vulnerability Assessment Methodology
Police agencies learn how to use C-VAM, a back-to-basics approach to community assessment, so that they can focus resources and funds where they are most needed.

Law and Order Magazine, May 2004 issue

Gas Mask Considerations for Law Enforcement
Factors to keep in mind when selecting gas masks in the wake of 9/11.

First Responder Network, Spring 2004 issue

Citizens Police Academy
Ordinary citizens and civilian volunteers in Clearwater, Florida, attend a school to learn about their local police department and how it works.

Law and Order Magazine, April 2004 issue

2003 SWAT Round-Up
SWAT teams from around the world compete in the 21st annual SWAT Round-Up in Orlando, Florida to find the best of the best.

Tactical Response, Spring 2004 issue

Into the Deep with Germany's Bavarian State Police Divers
Police divers in Germany use special tactics to fight cold temperatures and waterway traffic as they do their jobs.

Law and Order Magazine, March 2004 issue

The Baker Batshield: An Evolution in Police Tactics
The lighter weight, folding, maneuverable, soft ballistic shield recently developed offers tactical advantages over the traditional bunker ballistic shield.

The Police Marksman, March/April 2004 issue

Corner Shot
This tactical weapon system developed for Israeli forces allows an officer to see and to fire his weapon around corners.

The Police Marksman, March/April 2004 issue

10th Annual Southeastern SWAT Conference
A report on the SWAT competition hosted by the Spartanburg County (SC) Detention Facility where participants were put to the test with physical challenges, scenarios, and weapon accuracy.

Tactical Response, Winter 2003 issue

Creating a Motorcycle Unit
When starting a motorcycle unit, officer and cycle selection, training, financing, and the unit's benefits to the agency should be taken into consideration.

Police Fleet Manager, Winter 2003 issue

The 2003 TASER Tactical Conference
A weekend of seminars, practical application updates, demonstrations and discussions of the latest developments in TASER Technology were highlighted by international presenters.

Tactical Response, Fall 2003 issue

ID Scanners: Controlling Underage Drinking
Police patrolling bars in Tampa (FL) are using high-tech ID scanners that can't be fooled by fake or altered IDs.

Law and Order Magazine, October 2003 issue

Zodiac Boats of the Bullet Proof Tour
The article discusses the inflatable and rigid inflatable Zodiac boats -- as well as one with ballistic protection -- that made the 1800-mile law enforcement training trip down the Mississippi River.

Law and Order Magazine, October 2003 issue

Engines of the Bullet Proof Tour
The marine outboard engines pushing the Zodiac boats down the 1800-mile route of the Bullet Proof Tour did the job without a single mechanical problem -- not even a spark plug change.

Law and Order Magazine, October 2003 issue

New Advances in Thermal Imaging
A report on the latest developments in handheld, miniature, and weapon sight infrared thermal imaging cameras.

Law and Order Magazine, October 2003 issue

Mindset: The Ultimate Weapon
Seriously wounded Cpl. Terry Metts of the Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office recounts how his conscious decision to survive and his determination to return home saved his life.

Law and Order Magazine, October 2003 issue

The Latest TASER Technology
The latest developments in TASER technology provide lighter-weight, smaller, less lethal weapons that will save the lives of both officers and assailants.

Law and Order Magazine, September 2003 issue

People with Abilities: The Untapped Resource
The Largo (FL) Police Department is hiring talented people with disabilities to fulfill long-term commitment employment goals.

Law and Order Magazine, September 2003 issue

Safety Forces Fair Promotes Child Safety
The police and fire departments of Independence, Ohio, join to produce a safety fair offering public education, crime prevention and community relations.

Law and Order Magazine, August 2003 issue

Managing the Evidence Room
How a high-tech, custom-designed program helps the Lakeland (FL) Police Department keep track of thousands of items in its evidence room easily and efficiently.

Law and Order Magazine, August 2003 issue

Bullet Proof Tour
A report on the 1800-mile trip down the Mississippi River to introduce Zodiac's bulletproof inflatable boat, train law enforcement agencies along the way, and gain publicity for the Navy SEALS' Naval Special Warfare Foundation

Tactical Response, Summer 2003 issue

Equipment of the SWAT Round-Up
A look at the equipment used by various police departments and sheriff's offices when they compete in the annual international SWAT Round-up held in Orlando, Florida..

Tactical Response, Summer 2003 issue

Radical Change in Highway Safety
Through a public information campaign, the establishment of Special Enforcement Corridors, and a new way of looking at traffic enforcement, the Palm Beach Gardens (FL) Police Department instituted RADICAL (Reduce Aggressive Driving in Critical Accident Locations), making a significant impact on citywide traffic crashes.

Law and Order Magazine, July 2003 issue

Unconventional Vehicles for Law Enforcement
The Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office uses a Dodge Dakota Quad Cab SLT pickup truck, modified by Sheriff's mechanics, to combat aggressive driving.

Police Fleet Manager, Summer 2003 issue

Preparing for the Unspeakable
A real-time, rapid response school shooting scenario and lockdown drill is conducted while school is in session. The planning and success of the exercise are due to the coordination and cooperation between various law enforcement agencies, the school system, the St. Petersburg (FL) Fire Department, the community, and the middle school students.

Law and Order Magazine, June 2003 issue

Big Dogs Go First
Additional training and extra certification by the United States Police Canine Association (U.S.P.C.A.) make the dogs in the Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office effective, reliable K-9 team partners.

Law and Order Magazine, June 2003 issue

Line of Duty Death Package
Through the efforts of their fellow officers, members of the Clearwater (FL) Police Department, now know that should something happen to them, there is a program in place to help their families.

Law and Order Magazine, May 2003 issue

SWAT Round-Up 2002
A report on the fierce competition held each year involving national and international SWAT teams.

Tactical Response Magazine, Spring 2003 issue

Preparing for Civil Unrest
The police department of Clearwater, Florida has a unique, specially trained Emergency Response Team.

Law and Order Magazine, March 2003 issue

Germany's Polizei Tactical Units
A look at the training and functions of the various police tactical units in Germany.

Law and Order Magazine, March 2003 issue

AirMunition
Airmunitions products are a realistic approach to weapons training that makes training safer because live rounds cannot be fired.

Law and Order Magazine, January 2003 issue

Resort Town Reaches Out to the Homeless
The Clearwater, Florida, police department joins with other agencies
to help the homeless in the city.

Community Links Magazine, November 2002 issue

The Inaugural CERT Challenge 2002
Corrections Emergency Response Teams (CERT) compete against other correctional teams from all over the country in the first CERT Challenge.

The Police Marksman, November/December 2002 issue

Basic SWAT School
What does it take to become SWAT member? Basic SWAT School, in ten full days of instruction and practical exercises, graduates SWAT officers ready to handle difficult situations on the street.

Tactical Response Magazine, Charter Issue, 2002

Preparing for SWAT Round-Up
How various SWAT teams prepare for grueling competition with other SWAT teams from all over the world.

Tactical Response Magazine, Charter Issue, 2002

How Campus K-9s are Keeping Students Safe
The Pinellas County Campus Police Department is the only school district in Florida with an award-winning, five-dog canine unit. From visiting the students in kindergarten to searching for weapons and bombs in the upper levels, the dogs are at work protecting public school students.