Protective service officers should resolve to being prepared for upcoming training and qualification. Firearms training and qualification is probably the most important thing that a protective services officer should consider, and waiting until the last minute to prep is not the best strategy.
I propose that PSOs start the transition to coming to the range on a regular basis three to four months in advance. You should gain more familiarization with the unholstering and addressing of the target, and getting used to turning targets. You can do dry-fire exercises; that’s even possible from home, and there are all sorts of inexpensive tools that do not require the assistance of a certified trainer.
Of course, hiring a certified trainer is also an option. A trainer can take you through the paces and walk you through a specific course when the time comes.
I’ve seen many PSOs wait until the last minute to prep for their firearms qualifications and the results can be poor. Take the time to prep, spend some additional time at the range, and come to the qualification prepared.
Christopher Perez is the Director of Training for the Protective Services Training Academy (PSTA). He is an acclaimed industry expert on protective service officer performance, training, and career development.
He has been involved in law enforcement and security training for over 20 years. Before joining the PSTA in late 2012, Chris worked for G4S Government Solutions as the Chief Instructor for the Northern Capital Region (NCR) and Protective Services Watch Commander at the United States Holocaust Museum in Washington DC. With previous experience as both a municipal law enforcement officer trainer and United States Marine Corps Security Force instructor, Chris has dedicated many years to the development of curriculum and training standards used throughout the professional protective service and law enforcement communities.
Chris is an instructor at heart; never missing an opportunity to spend time in the classroom or shooting range. From civilian-focused, NRA basic firearms training and Federal Protective Service Officer Defensive Tactics instruction, to CPR/AED/First Aid Certification courses and Department of Criminal Justice Commission training, Chris regularly exercises his ability to teach (and learn) in nearly every discipline offered at PSTA. Often regarded as an over-zealous “perfectionist” by his peers and associates, Chris adamantly maintains the belief that confidence and proficiency can only be obtained through persistent dedication to quality training.
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