Training to be a police officer lasts an entire career.  Training is physically and mentally challenging.  Officers take part in classroom session, such as reviewing policy and case law, and tactical sessions, such as the firing range and defensive tactics.

The purpose of training is to prepare officers for what they may face on the street while performing their day-to-day duties. It is well known in the sports world that you will perform the way you train; this is no less true for law enforcement.  Realistic and interactive training programs are essential.

Training for Surfside Beach police officers begins on their first day.  Whether they are new officers or seasoned, officers take part in a strict field training program.  This process is intended to help familiarize officers to the department and the community.  Some officers require additional training at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy for as little as 3 and as many as 9 weeks.  The average new rookie officer can spend from 4 months to 8 months in a training capacity prior to patrolling alone.

It’s been said amateurs do it till they get it right and professionals do it till they can’t get it wrong.  On the street things can go very wrong, very quickly and officers have to be prepared at any time.  The officers of the Surfside Beach Police Department train in various different aspects of law enforcement including hand-to-hand combat, Taser, emergency vehicle operations, and firearms.  This type of training can be very intense and physically challenging and is conducted in all types of weather and conditions.  The training enhances the officer’s physical ability and confidence and can be the difference between life and death.

The Surfside Beach Police Department is very proud of its training program, which is above and beyond the minimum requirements set by the State of South Carolina.  The department is fortunate to have 2 state certified instructors who work with officers in a wide range of advanced fields.  The department also has 2 instructors who can teach officers in specific topics.  Along with internal programs, the department seeks training outside the agency with other departments and organizations, such as the Public Agency Training Council.

If you would like to see photos and video of our officers training, visit out photo/video gallery!!

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