Wisconsin is one of the leading states in effective use of Reality Based Training for law enforcement. Recently, the state has completely revamped their training methodologies and requirements for all academies to incorporate much more effective RBT training and testing methodologies.
When tightly scripted and well structured scenarios are utilized and highly trained and controlled Role Players are utilized, very safe and realistic training can be undertaken.
Chief Joe Collins from Two Rivers PD has been one of the driving forces behind these changes and models these methodologies within his own department and surrounding departments.
The following story illustrates some of the techniques that can be used and the benefits of this type of training.
(Editor’s Note: I did contact the agency to ascertain what type of training was occurring in the photograph out of concerns for the lack of safety indicator markings on the firearms and the individuals in the photo, as well as the lack of any sort of protective gear. I was told that the photo was staged for the camera purely to show a dynamic armed engagement underway. They agreed that they should have had the markings and the gear on – and that during the actual training that they indeed were following appropriate safety protocols)