Friday Link Roundup

Every Friday, we'll post a few links to interesting and relevant content we've come across during the week. Seen something online worth sharing? Send an email to our tip line. 

Top Gear rounds up the best police cars from around the world (slideshow)

How to Write a Grant Proposal: A Beginner's Guide

NYPD releases new interactive crime map

Panasonic expands Toughbook distribution in Australia

Comedian bakes iPhone shaped cookies to prank cops, ends up getting arrested for an outstanding warrant

The Cost of Fire...and How to Bring it Down!

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the cost of fire fighting has gone up monumentally over the course of the last thirty years.  Even with numbers being adjusted for general inflation, the cost of fire is 38% higher in 2010 than it was in 1980.

It is estimated that fire costs about $328 billion per year.  That number covers everything from economic loss (such as property damage), to human loss (such as loss of life, medical care, or pain and suffering), to the actual cost of preventing fire (such as fire departments and equipment).  A significant bulk of the costs stem from prevention.

That should leave every fire department questioning what they can do to help their department save money.  So, how can you save money?  And how can you help other departments save money too?

Turnouts
Companies like Fire Dog Services deal in donated turnout gear.  Working with a company like this allows you to acquire newer gear for your department, keeping you up to date with safety regulations, even if you don't quite have the funding to do so.  Donating your older gear to Fire Dog Services can greatly impact the budget of smaller less funded departments!

Fire Equipment
Any fire department will tell you that one of their biggest expenses is their trucks and pumpers.  New vehicles are expensive, but frequent repairs on aging vehicles isn't always much cheaper.  As an alternative to buying a brand new truck, look at a company like Adirondack Fire Equipment.  They buy and sell well-conditioned used emergency service vehicles.  You can assist in the funding of your new vehicle by selling your old one, or upgrade to a newer vehicle by purchasing used.

Technology
When it comes to buying rugged computer equipment most departments deal with a moment of sticker-shock.  By looking to purchase refurbished Panasonic Toughbooks, you can essentially outfit your entire fleet for the cost of purchasing one new unit.

Grants
One of the most underused forms of funding purchases for emergency service agencies is grant funding.  Grants are essentially free funding to assist smaller, financially needy departments with the ability to get the newer equipment that they so desperately need.  And grants are available for practically everything....training, tools, apparatus, turnouts, hoses, and the list goes on-and-on.  Grant writing services are even available for those who aren't quite sure if they can properly write up a grant!

Thinking of Adding A K9 Unit: What You Should Know

The are multiple benefits to having a K9 unit in any police department.  K9s are more agile and have a significantly better sense of smell than humans.  This makes them more efficient at clearing buildings, tracking suspects or missing persons, seeking out drugs or explosives, and even locate accelerants in arson investigations.  However, there is a lot more to starting a K9 unit than having a large police vehicle and getting a dog.

There is a significant start up cost involved in starting a K9 unit.  Initial start up costs include purchasing a dog, equipment, proper transportation, food, vets, and training.  So, what can you look to spend?

• The Dog - Purchase of a pre-trained adult dog will range between $4500-$15,000.  Reputable vendors will have warranties with their dogs, such as replacement if the dog develops a health issue or is deemed not to be a good fit within a few months of purchase.
• The Vehicle - You can either purchase a vehicle specifically built for K9 units (which are going to cost slightly more than standard SUVs or cruisers).  These vehicles come with installed kennels, rear cooling systems, spill proof water dishes, heat alarms, and automatic door openers.  These items are essential for keeping your dog safe while in the vehicle (both with an officer and without), and allows the dog to be released from the vehicle in an officer distress.
• The Vet - K9s are exposed to many more dangers than a common household pet.  They can be exposed to excessive heat/cold and they can be injured in the line of duty (such as through stabbings or gun shot wounds).  It is important that a 24-hour veterinarian who has experience in police dogs is a necessity.
• The Training - Most K9s will come pre-trained by the company you purchase them from.  However, it is necessary at purchase to train your handler.  This makes sure that the dog and the handler are a good match and that all training the dog has previously received is understood.  K9s also require continuous training, similar to that of officers, to keep their skills fresh.
• The Handler - Although this officer will still perform regular duties, they will also be required to take full responsibility for the K9.  Many departments have K9s live with their handlers (which is also recommended by many trainers).  If you do not currently have a member of your department who can devote both their on-duty and off-duty time to a K9, you will need to bring on an additional member as a K9 Handler.

It is also important to remember that there are going to be significant costs in maintaining a K9 unit as well. There are obvious expenses such as vehicle maintenance and well-check vet visits.  Often overlooked costs include the extra pay for the handler (as they are working a 24/7/365 job) and dog replacement.  Police dogs are generally around 2 years of age at the time of purchase; on average they are retired around 7-10 years of age.  This means approximately every five years you will need to replace your K9s.  Also, as they age, they are more likely to be prone to health issues (because of the breeds often used, they are prone to hip and knee issues as they age).

However, there are grant opportunities available for the purchase of K9s.  Grants vary on a state-by-state basis, but can significantly off-set the initial and follow-up costs.

If you are willing to dedicated the finances, time, and training to a K9, more information regarding K9 programs can be found through the US Police Canine Association and the North American Police Work Dog Association.  You should also talk with a local department about their experiences as well.

VirTra Systems: Judgmental Use-Of-Force & Firearms Simulator

VirTra Systems is one of the leading manufacturers of firearms simulators.  They specialize in both military and law enforcement training, however, this blog will focus on the law enforcement training simulators.

The world can be a very dangerous place. Law enforcement officers are expected to make the correct decision, with excellent marksmanship, in split-second life-and-death situations. The better and more realistic the training, the greater the chance the trainee will succeed when lives hang in the balance and threats are real! Customers throughout the world buy our simulators for realistic training so that trainees have better chances to succeed in their missions and survive lethal encounters.

VirTra Systems simulators are one of the best when it comes to training for judgemental-use-of-force and marksmanship.  The simulators start as (highly portable) single-screen units, such as the VirTra 100 LE.  This unit is small enough that it can be placed into a classroom setting.  It comes with various scenarios that were created by veteran law enforcement officials.  Training is supported for pistols, rifles, shotguns, TASER, OC sprays, and impact devices.  An optional CO2 upgrade can be utilized to simulate the recoil of the weapons, making for a more accurate training experience.

The VirTra 100 LE is able to be upgraded, either at time of purchase or as financial budgets allow, to either the VirTra 180 LE or the VirTra 300 LE.  The VirTra 180 LE consists of three connected screens for the simulation. The highest standard for training is the VirTra 300 LE, which consists of five screens and give the trainees a 300 degree fully immersive surround of the training environment.  Combined with the optional Threat-Fire device (that simulates return fire), this simulator creates a highly realistic and intense training simulation.

There is currently a grant opportunity for VirTra Systems simulators being offered through PoliceOne.com.

To learn more about these simulators you can request information from VirTra Systems and/or check out the following video:

FAAC Inc. Offering Grants for Driving Simulators

FAAC Incorporated is one of the most well-recognized software and systems engineering companies.  The majority of their products are for the US Government.  They include products such as avionics training, weapon guidance, sensors, electronic warfare, training ranges, and threat air defenses (such as surface-to-air missiles).  However, they have more recently begun developing products for the public sector, such as driving simulators.

FAAC Incorporated has driving simulators for all the major aspects of public safety: fire, police, and EMS.  All simulators are comprised of true-to-life controls and components, allowing for full reproduction of curb jumps, road vibration, creating a "real" driving sensation.  With the five high-resolution viewing screens, the driver has an accurate and realistic driving view.  The system also allows for the integration of your MDT (mobile data terminal).

Each simulator comes equipped with multiple driving simulations.  This diminishes the possibility of officers learning the simulations, and forces them to continuously test their skills.  Simulations can be paused and/or replayed by the instructor to correct any issues with the decisions or actions of the driver.  This creates one of the best teaching environments, as any issues are corrected immediately.




To find out how you can assist your department in getting grant assistance to obtain a driving simulator, check out this press release from FAAC Incorporated:

FAAC Incorporated is pleased to announce its participation in a program to link emergency response and public safety departments with grant funding opportunities.


In today’s tough economic environment, dollars are scarce and many city and county budgets are being cut and large capital expenditures are being postponed or eliminated. The amount of grant dollars and stimulus funding – both federal and private – available for police, fire, and EMS, has remained strong, yet many departments are unfamiliar with the grant process and lack the knowledge or resources to successfully apply for grants.


“The assistance program takes the mystery out of matching the correct grant funding source with the specific need of the department,” said Bill Martin, FAAC’s Public Safety Business Manager. “Sometimes the biggest hurdle when purchasing a driver training simulation system is to find that single funding source that will match your need from all the grant information out there – that is why this grant assistance program is so important these public safety departments.”


To assist the effort of matching the needs of the industry with the proper funding avenues, FAAC is underwriting a grant assistance program managed by FireRescue1, PoliceOne, and EMS1 websites to assist those interested in purchasing driver training simulation. This financial initiative is part of the FAAC Customer for Life Philosophy to give back and be a partner in the industry that serves us all so well.


“The grant assistance program is our way to reach out and support the hard-working folks who want to improve their driver training programs,” said Mike McLelland, customer experience manager. “This assistance gives departments who otherwise would not be able to fund a simulator system the ability to get into the running for grant dollars to support safe driving initiatives.


Law enforcement agencies interested in obtaining grant location assistance can visit the website here: http://www.policegrantshelp.com/company-page/FAAC/



Fire departments interested in obtaining grant location assistance can visit the website here: http://www.firegrantshelp.com/company-page/FAAC/


EMS departments interested in obtaining grant location assistance can visit the website here: http://www.emsgrantshelp.com/company-page/FAAC/


Those interested in receiving assistance locating appropriate grant sources simply can go to the websites above and fill out a form that asks for basic information plus how you intend to use the driver training simulator, amount of grant assistance requested, and staffing profile

Are You Missing Out On Free Grant Money?

We've written before about how to get grant money, however, it seems as though a lot of departments are missing out on the opportunity to add (potentially) a significant amount of equipment to their departments through free funding!  A brief search online will find literally thousands of available opportunities for police grants and fire grants.  The funding opportunities come from federal grant programs, state grant programs, and even corporate grant opportunities.


Tips For Finding Federal/State Funding:

• Find, bookmark, and frequently check federal websites such as Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security.
• Find, bookmark, and frequently check your state website.
• Get on mailing lists for federal/state agencies that offer grants.  They announce when new grants come available!
• Network with other departments that are seeking grants.  They may find a grant opportunity you didn't!
• Get involved with committees, task forces, and workshops at the state level.  This will aid your networking ability and introduce you more grant opportunities!
• Always search a vendors website or call them about grant opportunities for their products.  Many of the vendors we have reviewed offer amazing grant programs.  Some of them include Tactical Command Industries Inc (tactical headsets), Digital Ally (LIDAR speed guns), FLIR Systems (thermal imagers), and automated license plate readers.

Make Sure Your Grant Gets Reviewed:

• The product you are looking to purchase and your department must meet the guidelines of the grant.  Be sure to read all of the fine print (product specifications, department size, response area, etc).  If your needs don't completely match the grant, look for a different one.
• Apply for the high priority items of a grant.  For example, if a federal or state grant is looking to help you upgrade police cruisers, request Toughbooks and automated license plate readers over newer sirens and lights.  It shows you have a greater need and therefore you are more likely to receive funding.
• Show your need!  If you are looking to replace/upgrade equipment that is below the current safety standards, be sure to express the percentage of your department that is utilizing sub-par equipment.  An entire fire department with outdated turnout gear is more likely to get funded then one that only has 20% outdated gear.
• Follow the directions!  It sounds simple, but many grants are removed from the review process simply for not following directions.  Fully fill out all forms and attach any and all documentation being requested.
• Get help!  Utilize grant writing services, attend a seminar/training on grant writing, or simply have someone else in your department assist you.  A second set of eyes reviewing everything can't hurt!
• Start early!  This allows you to take your time and fully prepare all of the information you need to submit a grant that will secure you funding.

LIDAR Speed Guns

Digital Ally is a technology-driven company specializing in advanced digital video police cameras and law enforcement surveillance equipment. The are the makers of the most advanced LIDAR speed gun available. Digital Ally’s LIDAR and video systems offer the features and reliability you need.


Laser Ally™ LIDAR Speed Guns are a new breakthrough in hand-held LIDAR speed detectors. Designed in conjunction with one of the leading experts in LIDAR, they provide...

• Extreme Accuracy - 
Pinpoint the speed and direction of a vehicle in single or multi-lane traffic. Unlike with traditional RADAR, laser speed detectors utilize an extremely narrow beam, allowing speed detection and targeting to be unaffected by traffic congestion.

• Cutting Edge Anti-Jamming Technology - 
Laser Ally Speed Guns were the only LIDAR systems not detected or jammed in a recent third-party test against LIDAR jammers.

• Total Reliability - 
Laser Ally Speed Guns are ruggedized.  They are built for heavy use, and they are waterproof for harsh environmental conditions.  They are amazingly fast and accurate with anti-jamming technology, and provide complete courtroom credibility. The gun's body is composed of a polycarbonate ABS blend for strength and chemical resistance. Critical alignment components are tied together by a second internal die cast metal structure to withstand a drop without requiring realignment.

Laser Ally LIDAR Speed Guns Feature:

• Small, Light & Balanced

• Incredible, Extended Range

• Extremely Fast Acquisition Time

• Advanced Anti-Jamming

• Tree, Fence, etc. Obstruction Mode

• Superior Weather Mode

• True Continuous Tracking with Audio

• Internal Electronic Tests, Software Verification & Digitally Locked High Speed Timing

• True Color 1:1 Head-Up Display for Accurate Vehicle Colors & No Eye Strain

• Models Available for Still Image & Video Recording

• Optional Folding 8x Monocular HUD Scope for Extended Range Identification

• Easy To Use Menu

• Improved Alignment Stability

• Integrates with Digital Ally DVM & Ultra Video Systems

• Optional Water-Resistant, Portable Ticket Printer

• 32-Hour Battery Life with Auto Sleep Mode

• Waterproof & Impact Resistant

• In-The-Field Software Upgradeable

Grant opportunities for LIDAR speed guns are available at various online funding sites.  Digital Ally also offers various financing and purchasing options to ease the burden of the purchasing process.