Posted: 5/6/2005 1:37:48 PM EDT
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:) As of this morning I am no longer a trainee. Five months of patrol FTO later, I'm on my own! Just excited, figured I'd babble about it. Everyone be safe and take it easy. |
I can remember that feeling. Sitting in the cruiser by myself, looking around wondering what the hell to do next. First few car stops ALL BY MYSELF were big pucker factors. I can remember barely being able to call the stop out on the radio.  ohhh the good ole days.
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Congrats.
I vaguely remember that. (10 years later) Check 6, and good luck. Let us know how it goes. Art (watch your ass kid) in KY |
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Damn...been a little over 7 years now since I had that feeling. Listen to the others advice. Don't try and save the world. Just do the best job you can and try and be a cut above the rest. Don't get disheartened when the CJ system lets the criminals out. Just remember you did your part. |
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Congrats and welcome to the team. Advice: Be courteouse Be respectfull Treat people how you would like to be treated (smile man, be happy) Take no shit from a drunk/stoned person Create a reputation in your zone (no nonsence) Attack first (You'll know what I mean in time) Don't talk shit about fellow officers to citizens Don't get complacent....ever! This is from a 21 year veteran and good luck. |
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NEVER get cocky, ALWAYS know your location and be aware of your surroundings and those around you. The radio is your friend, calling for backup does not make you a pussy! You can't spend your pension if you're dead, be safe out there and always wear your vest. GOOD LUCK. |
+1 good advice right there! |
+ 100 |
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Good deal and congratulations! I'm reminded of the enthusiasm of new officers every time they put a trainee with me. Just remember, it's a long ride, pace yourself. For you older guys out there, if you can become an FTO, give it a shot. Every time I have a new guy with me it's a great reminder, a refreshing wake up if you will, through emphasizing to the new officer what situational awareness is all about, officer safety, a good brush up on department regulations, vehicle stop tactics and good old aggressive patrol. Some guys look at being an FTO with disdain. I actually look forward to it! Remember FTO's, you are shaping a career! |
| Good luck!!! It is a very exciting job, especially once you get that FTO out of your ass!!!! Not bashing you Henny I am just speaking about how nervous I was when I was new and didn't know squat!!! I was so nervous being around my FTO's just becuase they tend to know alot and I didn't have a clue (at that time). I respect the guys that get into the FTO field so they can teach the new guys about the job. There are some that do it for the extra money though( my department gives FTO's 200 dollars extra a month while they have a trainee). |
You now have to buy pizza for the shift. Pepperoni and sausage will do just fine.  Congrats from an FTO!
Fixed it for ya!
Spooky, I know what you mean... But, there are a few FTO's out there who know what they're doing. The secret to succeeding is pure desire to want to do this job. Let your nervousness provide the incentive for you to learn from seeing and doing things with your FTO. We know the recruits are nervous, we were there once, too. We expect it. We also expect that the recruits are inquisitive enough to ask questions... ask lots of them. IMO, officers who become FTO's just for the money, aren't likely to stay one long, because the work is pretty demanding compared to the extra $ involved. |
Scotchy, long time no talky! Good to hear from you, and thanks! Glocktastic |