Guernsey islanders may notice an increased number of police vehicles using blue lights and sirens over the next few weeks as officers undergo response driver training.
In an unprecedented year which has prevented all off-island driver refresher training, Guernsey Police have secured the services of a College of Policing-approved police driver trainer. Following engagement with public health, a negative test on arrival and the mandatory 14 days self-isolation the trainer is now carrying out a combination of refresher training with officers to ensure that the mandatory re-accreditation driving qualifications can be maintained.
Police drivers are licensed by College of Policing to drive at response speeds and must complete intensive specialist driving courses to enable them to use blue lights and sirens to progress through traffic in emergencies and other policing purposes. Guernsey Police follow the College of Policing-approved professional practice for police driving and this policy guidance places strict obligations on police drivers and their training.
Chief Inspector J-P Le Breton said: “It is imperative that this training is maintained otherwise there is a risk that officers would be unable to respond to emergencies. Covid-19 is not a valid reason for accreditation to lapse. The driver trainer will be instructing on basic driving, standard response and initial phase pursuit, as well as motorcycle training as part of this unique stop gap to maintain front line services.
“Guernsey Police would like to thank the public in advance for their understanding and patience with this training and will seek to minimise any disruption or inconvenience as a result”.
