State of the Art Training & Equipment
Outerwear/Gear
New and improved external load-bearing vests are issued to each officer, which were determined to be a safer and healthier alternative to the traditional duty belt. The health and well-being of our officers is our priority.
Technology
Burlington officers have access to new and emerging technology to include thermal optics, pole cameras, robots, drones and more, which support various missions like search and rescue or barricaded subjects. The advancement is technology allows officers to do their job safely and efficiently.
Emergency Response Vehicle
The Emergency Response Unit (ERU) is a team of specially trained officers who respond to high-risk incidents to include barricaded subjects, high-risk arrests and search warrants. Members from this team are responsible for operating and maintaining the Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV), which houses the tools and equipment needed for successful missions/deployments. The ERU works hand in hand with the Crisis Negotiations Unit (CNU).
Firearms Training &
Qualifications
Officers attend bi-annual firearms training to stay current on use-of-force laws, marksmanship, weapons functionality, and the required annual Vermont law enforcement qualification courses. Our firearms training program is taught by BPD personnel that are amongst the best Firearms Instructors in the State of Vermont. The bi-annual courses are custom tailored ranging from patrol officer pistol and rifle courses to more advanced courses for specialized units, such as the ERV Team.
Use of Force
& Defensive Tactics
Officers receive extensive training in use-of-force and defensive tactics several time throughout the year covering areas such as vehicle extrication, weapon retention, two officer arrest procedures and more. Our tactics training is cutting edge and principle based, and our cadre of instructors is among the best trained in the country. In addition to regular instruction in control and defensive skills, the department offers LEO-only Jiu Jitsu classes three days a week through a relationship with a local gym.