In order to become entry-level police officers, candidates are required to undergo academy training to learn the skills that will be required in the field. The Fort Worth Police Department offers both hands-on training and in-class instruction. Here is more information about new technologies recruits may encounter in police academy training:
Online Coursework
The police academy curriculum includes classroom instruction. During this process, recruits learn more about state law and criminal procedures, providing them with the background knowledge to recognize illegal activity and increase situational judgment. This allows them to learn how to take the appropriate actions in a field scenario. Trainees also learn more about cultural awareness to better communicate with and serve a multicultural community. This includes learning visual and social cues. Instruction is supported by laptops, allowing recruits to participate in online coursework and training. Recruits demonstrate their knowledge through electronic or written assessments.
Firearm Ranges
Academy training includes practice with firearms, requiring recruits to learn safe handling methods for a weapon, as well as the department-approved methods for using firearms. The Physical Resiliency Assessment (PRA) includes a trigger pull test utilizing both the dominant and non-dominate hand, having individuals shoot 18 times with the dominant hand and fire 17 times in their non-dominant hand.
The police academy offers live-fire ranges for recruits to use. These ranges are set at different distances, including 25 yards, 50 yards, and 100 yards. A firearm range allows trainees to practice firing under different scenarios. Our ranges include turning targets and low-light capabilities, allowing trainees to practice safely discharging a weapon at night or in a darkened facility.
Tactical Villages
Police training grounds include tactical villages. These offer force-on-force situations, allowing recruits to practice their use-of-force concepts. These concepts illustrate the appropriate scenarios for utilizing force in the field. Tactical villages are used to demonstrate real-life scenarios that an officer could encounter. The Fort Worth Police Academy utilizes state-of-the-art training grounds.
Physical Exam Tools
Applicants are required to undergo a physical assessment set by the police department and approved by the Civil Service Commission that assesses their candidacy for an entry-level officer position. These assessments utilize machinery and tools that demonstrate an individual’s physical capacity. During the Physical Resiliency Assessment (PRA), a candidate will utilize a fly-over air rower. To pass, recruits are required to row 500 meters on a 5 damper setting. The machine has the capacity to record the time.
Candidates also utilize a Power Training Machine during the timed event. This machine helps show whether a recruit has the force and endurance to restrain an 180-pound person. During the assessment, the candidate will use the machine to pull weights and rotate the machine through four 180-degree rotations. During the second round of rotations, the candidate lifts the weights.
While undergoing academy training, recruits utilize different equipment to learn ground and stand-up techniques. The Fort Worth Police Academy utilizes training batons and sim suits. Like the Power Training Machine, these tools help simulate encounters. Using this equipment helps train recruits for the physical demands of the job while helping them stay safe.
Learn About the Police Academy
Becoming familiar with the technology utilized in police training allows recruits to learn how to respond appropriately in different situations they may encounter. The 34-week academy teaches defensive tactics and the Texas Penal Code and utilizes specialized facilities. The Fort Worth Police Academy also offers lateral training for police officers. Recruiters are able to help you prepare for the different exams and assist you through the application process. To learn more about the police academy, we invite you to meet with a Fort Worth Police Department recruiter today.
