Issue link: http://lawandordermag.epubxp.com/i/98779
not forced unless no other option exists. Positive Preventative Steps Essentially, we not only have a duty to ensure our offcers are cared for following their exposure to a critical incident, but our responsibility starts even before a critical incident occurs. With the proper choice of a mental health counselor, they could be required to provide annual education on the normal reactions to stressful situations. We must be proactive and implement preventative techniques to minimize the potential for long-term stress disorders, which includes having solid policies and procedures in place that are utilized consistently for every traumatic incident as well as policies specifc for repeated traumatic incidents involving the same offcer. Continual supervisory training will allow for more accurate assessments before seeking outside help from a clinical professional. To have the greatest impact, we need to develop and implement an integrated approach that includes preventative techniques, appropriate screening, and evaluation practices as well as ongoing follow-up and services. It is imperative that administrators provide full support and commitment throughout the entire process. Treatment should include interventions as well as an educational component and should be both fexible and responsive to the individual offcer���s needs. We must assure that intervention occurs immediately following the event and before any symptoms emerge. Family, as well as the offcer���s natural supports should be included, as they may need advice and guidance in their vital role in the offcer���s healing process. It is even more imperative that we implement better prevention techniques to ward off the effects of prolonged exposure to trauma as well as to prevent long-term stress disorders. We never seem to have issues with responding to, and correcting, the physical trauma our offcers receive. It is the invisible scars of trauma that we seem to mismanage. Doing nothing has never been an option, especially under circumstances that may affect the lives of our offcers. If you have had traumatic events in your agency, and meet the offcer in the hallway, you should at least know what to say. Rodney Stearns is a Lieutenant with the Field Services Division at the Eau Claire County, Wisc. Sheriff���s Offce. As a crash reconstructionist, he responded to many fatal crashes. He is an instructor for various colleges in criminal justice. He has a Master���s Degree in Human Development - Family Studies, concentrating in mental health. He can be contacted at rod.stearns@co.eau-claire.wi.us. Photos by Mark C. Ide. LaO Post your comments on this story by visiting www.lawandordermag.com FOR THOSE WHO SERVE ACTIVE OR RETIRED LE OFFICERS ��� FIRST RESPONDERS ��� ACTIVE DUTY OR RETIRED MILITARY ��� ACTIVE RESERVISTS OR NATIONAL GUARD SIG SAUER�� would like to thank you for your dedication and service by offering two special purchase programs for SIG SAUER ���rearms. INDIVIDUAL OFFICER PURCHASE PROGRAM There are two ways to save ��� by purchasing through your agency or through an authorized dealer near you. COMMEMORATIVE PURCHASE PROGRAM Receive a special discounted price and free custom engraving. Minimum order of 25 pistols (same model & caliber). Included with each pistol are three magazines, SIGLITE�� Night Sights, gun lock, and manual. The program also offers savings on tactical ri���es in minimum quantities starting at 15. For complete information, contact: Of���cer Purchase Program: Email: publicsafetysales@sigsauer.com Commemorative Program: Email: commemorativesales@sigsauer.com Phone: (603) 418-8190 Fax: (603) 772-1481 when it counts ��� Click on EInfo at - www.lawandordermag.com reader service #17 www.lawandordermag.com 37