Development News for Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman PD Officer Conducts 'Avoid, Deny, Defend' Safety Training for Economic Vitality Board

Officer Brianne Sanders from the Bozeman Police Department conducted a safety training for the Economic Vitality Board members. The training covered the 'Avoid, Deny, Defend' strategy, focusing on practical steps for personal safety in various threatening situations. The session included discussions on situational awareness, identifying exits, the importance of acting quickly, and how to use everyday objects as improvised weapons. Specific emphasis was placed on the 'avoid' (run) aspect, urging participants to flee threats as quickly as possible, and the 'deny' (hide) aspect, which involves finding secure locations and barricading oneself. The 'defend' (fight) aspect was also covered, highlighting the use of improvised weapons and the psychological preparation needed for self-defense. The training also addressed specific concerns relevant to the board's meeting environment, such as exits, potential threats from agitated public members, and the use of panic buttons and landlines for emergency calls. The discussion also touched upon legal implications and the role of law enforcement.