Perception of Danger: Threat Identification and Response

Course Number: PA-622
Course Length: 1 Day (7.5 Hours)

Classes are available on a limited basis.

This course provides insight into an individual’s recognition and perception of situations that can impact his or her safety. We identify a process that takes us from our sensations to perception to decision-making. Participants are provided a closer look at human sensations and their role in forming perceptions. Various scenarios are presented to assist the student in identifying the concepts of sensation and perception for the public safety professional. During the course, we present a decision-making model designed to enhance our ability to effectively progress through the various stages of threat identification and response. Finally, we take an in-depth look at the physiological response to a critical incident in an effort to minimize its impact on our capability to formulate a response.

Topics discussed include the use of our senses during calls for service, how perception may differ between a layperson and the public safety professional, situational awareness and its relationship with the OODA Loop, proxemics, kinesics, pre-attack indicators. Physiological areas include visual and auditory changes, combat stress, critical incident amnesia, and tactical breathing.

This course takes into consideration additional subject areas such as tactics, report writing, use of force, and de-escalation as they are all interconnected when dealing with the perception of danger.