Category: Law Enforcement30.03.2023

Using Virtual Reality for De-escalation Skills Training With SURVIVR

De-escalation is an essential skill for law enforcement officers who work in high-pressure situations. The ability to de-escalate a situation can be the deciding factor between a safe and peaceful outcome or a potentially hazardous and even fatal one. However, teaching de-escalation is challenging and cannot be fully accomplished through traditional classroom lectures and actor-based exercises alone. Agency trainers and trainees must find new and innovative ways to address these challenges.

One innovative solution for de-escalation training is the SURVIVR Virtual Reality Training System developed by InVeris Training Solutions. This next-generation technology provides a groundbreaking approach to de-escalation training.

The Need for Advanced De-escalation Training

In recent years, there has been a discernible shift in the approach to policing in the United States, with a greater emphasis on de-escalation training as a strategy to limit the use of force by law enforcement officers.

Studies have shown that de-escalation training can improve officer safety and reduce the likelihood of injuries to officers and civilians. By teaching officers how to communicate effectively, manage emotions, and use non-violent tactics, de-escalation training can help to minimize the need for physical force and reduce the risk of harm to all involved parties.

Moreover, many law enforcement agencies have recognized the cost savings associated with de-escalation training, as it can help avoid expensive lawsuits and settlements resulting from excessive use of force. By investing in de-escalation training, agencies can also help build trust and positive relationships with the communities they serve, leading to improved public safety outcomes.

Leverage Next-gen Technology Solutions for De-escalation Training

Regardless of the de-escalation training method used, the ultimate aim is to provide law enforcement officers with the necessary skills to handle challenging situations without resorting to using force whenever possible. This requires a training approach that is dynamic, effective, and realistic.

Next-generation technology solutions can be instrumental in achieving these goals, particularly in scenario-based exercises. These solutions can provide an immersive and realistic environment that accurately simulates the stress and pressure of real-world situations. For instance, virtual reality (VR) technology allows officers to practice in a safe and controlled environment, where they can experience a range of scenarios and receive immediate feedback on their responses.

Another example of next-gen technology solutions is the use of simulation software that enables trainers to customize training scenarios to meet the specific needs of their officers. This software can adjust the difficulty level of scenarios to match the skill level of each officer, making the training more effective and challenging. Furthermore, the software can be used to track progress and identify areas where additional training may be required.

These next-generation technology solutions offer a game-changing approach to de-escalation training by providing officers with a more realistic and immersive learning experience. This can help to enhance their skills and build their confidence in handling challenging situations, while also reducing the need for the use of force.

Essentially, virtual reality training programs offer more interactive and engaging training experiences while giving officers a safe and supervised environment to hone their skills for in-person situations and meet the ever-changing requirements and expectations of law enforcement training programs.

Safely Train and Rehearse De-escalation of Force Scenarios With SURVIVR

SURVIVR Training System from InVeris Training Solutions is an innovative training technology that employs virtual reality (VR) to provide vital, real-world preparation for de-escalation of force situations. It provides a 3D environment for virtual reality officer training, scenario authoring, and simulated weapons.

Officers train in fully immersive environments that put them in action by utilizing top-of-the-line VR headsets with impressive 360-degree capabilities and weapons tracking. The ability to perform any scenario and interact with various environments and characters gives trainees as many training repetitions as they need using a system that’s available 24/7.

The SURVIVR Training System excels in de-escalation situations for several reasons.

1. Realistic scenario library with branching outcomesThe SURVIVR system offers realistic simulation experiences of the highest caliber, giving officers a taste of what to expect on the field. Officers can use this to hone their decision-making abilities and strategies for calming down tense situations. SURVIVR immerses trainees in a variety of situations that may require de-escalation techniques—including a traffic stop, a domestic disturbance, or an active shooter situation.
2. Customizable and scalable scenariosThe SURVIVR system is adaptable, enabling trainers to design and modify training scenarios and curricula to suit the particular requirements of their organization. It entails developing de-escalation situations specific to the community and the kind of law enforcement the agency supports.
3. Real-world training, anytimeThe SURVIVR system’s sophisticated performance tracking and reporting features offer in-depth perceptions of an officer’s actions and choices throughout a simulation. It renders a virtual avatar for each trainee’s body so trainees can realistically interact with each other in multi-user experiences. SURVIVR also makes it easier for trainers to pinpoint the areas where officers need to improve and give them feedback and specialized training to assist them in enhancing their de-escalation techniques.
4. Safe EnvironmentFinally, the SURVIVR system’s ease of integration with existing equipment and infrastructure helps to create a seamless and efficient training experience. The use of virtual reality technology in de-escalation training is crucial, as it allows officers to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment, helping to prepare them for real-life situations.

In conclusion, using the SURVIVR virtual reality training system offers an innovative and effective approach to de-escalation training for law enforcement officers. The system provides a safe and controlled environment for officers to practice de-escalation skills in a range of challenging scenarios while also offering immediate feedback and progress-tracking capabilities.

The benefits of de-escalation training cannot be overstated, particularly in today’s climate, where there is a growing need for law enforcement to engage with communities in a peaceful and non-confrontational manner. With the SURVIVR system, officers can gain the skills and confidence needed to manage difficult situations without resorting to the use of force.

If you are a law enforcement agency looking to enhance your de-escalation training program, consider investing in the SURVIVR virtual reality training system. By providing a safe and immersive learning environment, this technology can help your officers develop the necessary skills and confidence to manage difficult situations without resorting to the use of force.

For more information on how you can revolutionize your de-escalation training and encourage safer and more efficient policing practices, download the SURVIVR data sheet or schedule a free demo.