General Order for Emergency Vehicle Operation 7/16/2024

Questions and Answers

Under what circumstances may Escambia County Sheriff's Office vehicles be operated in pursuit of another vehicle?

When a vehicle is speeding excessively

When a vehicle has a broken tail light

When there is a reasonable belief the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony (correct)

When there is a reasonable belief the fleeing subject has committed a misdemeanor

What is the definition of a 'routine response' in the context of Escambia County Sheriff's Office emergency vehicles?

The operation of an emergency unit without activating emergency equipment, in response to a situation that poses an immediate threat to human life

A high-speed pursuit of a stolen vehicle

A response to a special event

The operation of an emergency unit, without activating emergency equipment, in response to a situation of a nature that does not pose an immediate threat to human life (correct)

When may deputies activate emergency signal devices during traffic enforcement activities?

At their discretion, at any time

Only when expediency is required to effectively eliminate potential hazards to the public (correct)

Only during special events

Only during high-speed pursuits

Who has the authority to initiate an emergency response within Escambia County Sheriff's Office jurisdiction?

The deputy, based on available information and their training and experience Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office when it comes to emergency vehicle operation?

To ensure public safety Signup and view all the answers

What type of vehicles may be pursued at the discretion of the patrol supervisor?

Stolen vehicles Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the general order for Escambia County Sheriff's Office emergency vehicles?

To provide guidelines for the safe operation of emergency vehicles in emergency and pursuit situations Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for deputies responding to routine calls?

To observe all posted speed limits, traffic control devices, and signals Signup and view all the answers

Who is authorized to operate an emergency unit in emergency mode?

Only deputy sheriffs Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for a vehicle to be operated in emergency mode?

Equipped with emergency lights, a siren, and a mobile radio Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy sheriff exceed the speed limit during an emergency response?

After weighing the risks of danger to life and property, and considering road, traffic, and weather conditions Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do when responding to an 'Officer in Trouble' call?

Do not notify Communications Signup and view all the answers

When is a deputy allowed to disregard regulations governing direction or movement?

After considering or weighing the risks of injury to life or property Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for deputies transporting prisoners or witnesses?

They must have prior approval from a supervisor to respond in emergency mode Signup and view all the answers

When can an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) respond in an emergency mode?

When operated off-road Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for a pursuit to be initiated?

A reasonable belief that the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony Signup and view all the answers

When does a pursuit start?

When the suspect is aware or reasonably should be aware that the deputy has directed them to stop and refuses to do so Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration for continuing a pursuit?

The danger to the public is greater by not attempting to apprehend the suspect Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the factors to consider when deciding to pursue a suspect?

Demeanor of the suspect Signup and view all the answers

What should pursuing deputies and the on-duty supervisor continually evaluate during a pursuit?

The safety of the deputy, the public, and the violator Signup and view all the answers

What should emergency unmarked units or specially marked emergency units do upon the arrival of a marked unit?

Move to a support position Signup and view all the answers

What is a restriction on pursuit units?

Units can drive on the wrong side of any highway Signup and view all the answers

What is considered deadly force in most circumstances?

Ramming and stationary roadblocks Signup and view all the answers

When is a PIT maneuver authorized?

When the perpetrators escape or continued flight creates an actual and imminent threat to lives Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited when a tire deflation device is deployed?

Using the PIT maneuver Signup and view all the answers

Who determines the number of units needed in a pursuit?

The supervisor controlling the operation Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of using a PIT maneuver?

To apprehend a fleeing suspect vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration when deciding to use a PIT maneuver?

The time and place will not unreasonably endanger human life and property Signup and view all the answers

What is the desirable speed of the suspect’s vehicle for executing a PIT?

Less than 50 MPH Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the risk factors to consider prior to utilizing PIT?

Pedestrian traffic Signup and view all the answers

What should be done after the PIT scene is stabilized?

Take comprehensive photographs of the vehicles Signup and view all the answers

Who should approve the deployment of Stop Sticks?

The supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum speed at which Tire Deflation Devices are effective?

10 MPH Signup and view all the answers

What is not authorized against a motorcycle or vessel?

RAMMING Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary unit responsible for?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

What information should the primary unit provide to Communications upon initiation of the pursuit?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should happen to ECSO vehicles involved in a PIT, Ramming, or Moving Roadblock?

They should be inspected by Fleet Services Signup and view all the answers

What should the supervisor ensure is done after the Tire Deflation Device scene is stabilized?

Comprehensive photographs are taken of the vehicles Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the on-duty patrol supervisor during a pursuit?

To monitor, upgrade, downgrade, or terminate the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What should the secondary unit do upon arrival?

Pursue at a safe distance and assist the primary unit Signup and view all the answers

What should support units do to avoid creating a caravan behind the primary and secondary units?

Use parallel streets Signup and view all the answers

What should Communications do when a pursuit enters Escambia County from another jurisdiction or agency?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for the primary unit during a pursuit?

To transmit information about the pursuit to Communications Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances may the pursuit be terminated?

If the deputy cannot state the suspect has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony Signup and view all the answers

What should the secondary unit do if authorized by the primary unit or if the primary unit is disabled?

Pass the primary pursuit unit Signup and view all the answers

What should Communications do for pursuits within Escambia County?

Clear the radio channel for emergency radio traffic Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the patrol supervisor in relation to units from other jurisdictions?

To authorize assistance to other jurisdictions conducting vehicle pursuits Signup and view all the answers

What should the primary unit do if the secondary unit is more appropriately equipped for the pursuit?

Relinquish its position to the secondary unit Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the administrative review process for pursuits?

To ensure that current policies are being followed and make changes as required Signup and view all the answers

What happens to pursuits that are justifiable and comply with policy?

No further action is required if no injury or property damage occurred Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the documentation for pursuits that are not justified?

Copies of video and radio transmissions, and other applicable information Signup and view all the answers

Who reviews all pursuits?

The Uniformed Services Section OIC Signup and view all the answers

What happens to pursuits that are not justified and do not comply with policy?

They are forwarded to the Chain of Command for review Signup and view all the answers

When must all reports related to a pursuit be completed and forwarded?

Prior to being relieved from duty Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for the deployment of roadblocks and staffing during an inter-jurisdictional pursuit?

The supervisor of the agency that initiated the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

When is the use of roadblocks authorized?

To protect the public from imminent harm when the need to apprehend the suspect outweighs the danger of the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a roadblock?

To eliminate all escape routes available to the perpetrator Signup and view all the answers

When is it not considered a use of force issue?

When a deputy uses intervention to stop a runaway vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do when terminating a pursuit?

Immediately slow to the posted speed limit and turn off all emergency equipment Signup and view all the answers

When should a pursuit be terminated?

When the public or deputies are exposed to more danger than the offense or conditions warrant Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do when losing visual contact with the violator?

Continue looking for the suspect at reduced and lawful speeds Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration for terminating a pursuit?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What determines if ECSO units will continue a pursuit in another jurisdiction?

The discretion of the patrol supervisor Signup and view all the answers

Who should be notified when a pursuit is terminated?

All units involved in the pursuit and the Communications Unit Signup and view all the answers

What information should be provided to the Communications Unit when a pursuit is terminated?

The exact location where the pursuit was terminated and the last known direction of travel of the suspect violator Signup and view all the answers

When another jurisdiction assumes primary responsibility for a pursuit, what should ECSO units do?

Follow at a safe distance Signup and view all the answers

What should the vessel operator consider before exceeding posted speed zone limits during a pursuit?

The risk of danger to life and property Signup and view all the answers

What information must be included in the original offense report for a pursuit?

Initial charge(s), weather conditions, road surfaces, population of the area, and other deputies involved Signup and view all the answers

Who completes a supplemental report containing information about the supervisor's actions and involvement?

The supervisor in charge of the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a pursuit initiated by another agency enters Escambia County?

All guidelines and restrictions regarding pursuits described in this general order will apply Signup and view all the answers

Why do ECSO units relinquish their positions when another jurisdiction assumes primary responsibility for a pursuit?

To allow the other jurisdiction to take control of the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of documenting involvement in a pursuit?

To provide a record of the incident Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for vessel occupants during a pursuit?

Wearing life jackets Signup and view all the answers

When must all deputies involved in a pursuit complete a report?

Immediately following the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office when it comes to emergency vehicle operation in emergency and pursuit situations?

To ensure public safety Signup and view all the answers

In what situations may deputies activate emergency signal devices?

During authorized special events and traffic enforcement activities Signup and view all the answers

Who determines whether to pursue a stolen vehicle?

The patrol supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for deputies responding to emergencies?

Observing all posted speed limits and traffic control devices Signup and view all the answers

What is the policy of the Escambia County Sheriff's Office regarding pursuits?

To authorize pursuits only when there is reasonable belief the fleeing subject has committed a forcible felony Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of activating emergency signal devices during responses to hazards?

To allow orderly and safe transit through heavily congested roadways Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration when deciding to pursue a vehicle?

The nature of the crime committed Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of having guidelines for the safe operation of Escambia County Sheriff's Office emergency vehicles?

To ensure public safety Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consideration for a deputy sheriff when operating an emergency vehicle?

Driving with due regard for the safety of all persons Signup and view all the answers

When may a deputy sheriff disregard traffic regulations during an emergency response?

After weighing the risks of danger to life and property, and considering road, traffic, and weather conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) responding in emergency mode?

The ATV must be operated off-road Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration for continuing a pursuit?

The danger to the public if the suspect is not stopped Signup and view all the answers

When may a deputy sheriff activate emergency signal devices during an emergency response?

During the entire duration of the emergency response Signup and view all the answers

What is a restriction on deputies transporting prisoners or witnesses?

They may not engage in emergency response without supervisor approval Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for an ECSO vehicle operating in emergency mode?

The vehicle must be equipped with emergency lights, a siren, and a mobile radio Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the provisions outlined in Section 525.4?

To provide guidelines for emergency vehicle operation Signup and view all the answers

When may a deputy sheriff exceed the speed limit during an emergency response?

After weighing the risks of danger to life and property, and considering road, traffic, and weather conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for a pursuit to be initiated?

There must be a reasonable belief the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony Signup and view all the answers

What is the desirable speed of the suspect’s vehicle for executing a PIT or Moving Roadblock?

Less than 50 MPH Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy deploy Stop Sticks?

With supervisor’s approval and after receiving training and certification Signup and view all the answers

What should happen to ECSO vehicles involved in a PIT, Ramming, or Moving Roadblock?

They should be inspected by Fleet Services as soon as practical Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the risk factors to consider prior to utilizing PIT?

Pedestrian traffic Signup and view all the answers

What should the supervisor ensure is done after the Tire Deflation Device scene is stabilized?

That comprehensive photographs are taken of the vehicles at final resting place Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the primary unit during a pursuit?

To continually evaluate the circumstances of the pursuit and terminate the pursuit if it exceeds the limits of this order or otherwise becomes impractical to continue Signup and view all the answers

What information should the primary unit provide to Communications upon initiation of the pursuit?

Unit identification, location, speed, direction of travel, reason for pursuit, vehicle description, and tag number Signup and view all the answers

What should be done after the PIT scene is stabilized?

Comprehensive photographs should be taken of the vehicles at final rest, any roadway evidence, and the vehicles from all directions Signup and view all the answers

Who determines the number of units needed in a pursuit?

The supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What is RAMMING not authorized against?

Motorcycle or vessel unless justified in using deadly force Signup and view all the answers

What determines the number of units needed in a pursuit?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

When is a PIT maneuver authorized?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should pursuing deputies and the on-duty supervisor continually evaluate during a pursuit?

Both a and b Signup and view all the answers

What is considered deadly force in most circumstances?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should emergency unmarked units or specially marked emergency units do upon the arrival of a marked unit?

Move to a support position Signup and view all the answers

What is a restriction on pursuit units?

Only two ground level units can be actively involved in the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of using a PIT maneuver?

To preserve life and protect the public's safety Signup and view all the answers

What should be done when a suspect enters the wrong way of the road?

Maintain visual contact by paralleling the suspect on the lawful side of the highway Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration when deciding to use a PIT maneuver?

The time and place will not unreasonably endanger human life and property Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited when a tire deflation device is deployed?

Using a PIT maneuver against vehicles with one or more deflated tires Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary unit responsible for during a pursuit?

Provide relevant information to Communications Signup and view all the answers

What should the secondary unit do upon arrival?

Assist the primary unit and assume primary radio communications as soon as practical Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for the primary unit during a pursuit?

To notify Communications of any changes in speed, direction of travel, traffic, etc. Signup and view all the answers

What should support units do to avoid creating a caravan behind the primary and secondary units?

Make use of parallel streets Signup and view all the answers

What should Communications do when a pursuit enters Escambia County from another jurisdiction or agency?

Determine the location, direction of travel, number of units involved, and the reason for the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the on-duty patrol supervisor during a pursuit?

To monitor and control the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances may the pursuit be terminated?

Unless the deputy can state the suspect has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony Signup and view all the answers

What should the secondary unit do if authorized by the primary unit or if the primary unit is disabled?

Assume primary radio communications and pursue Signup and view all the answers

What should Communications do for pursuits within Escambia County?

Clear the radio channel for emergency radio traffic, notify the appropriate patrol supervisor, and provide all relevant information Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the patrol supervisor in relation to units from other jurisdictions?

Request the jurisdiction being entered to assume command of the pursuit with ECSO units acting as support units Signup and view all the answers

Who has the authority to stop an inter-jurisdictional pursuit?

The supervisor of the agency that initiated the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances is the use of roadblocks authorized?

To protect the public from imminent harm when the need to apprehend the suspect outweighs the danger of the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

When can a deputy terminate a pursuit?

When the pursuit exposes the public or the deputies to more danger than the offense or conditions warrant Signup and view all the answers

What should happen when a pursuit is terminated?

The primary unit will provide the exact location where the pursuit was terminated and the last known direction of travel of the suspect violator Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration when deciding to use a roadblock?

The area should have a minimum of ½ mile of unobstructed visibility Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for assigning a deputy to supervise the roadblock?

The patrol shift supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do if they lose visual contact with the violator for more than a reasonable amount of time?

Terminate the pursuit and continue looking for the suspect at reduced and lawful speeds Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for a pursuit to be continued?

Approval from the patrol supervisor or other ranking supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What should the primary unit do when a pursuit is terminated?

Provide the exact location where the pursuit was terminated and the last known direction of travel of the suspect violator Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the administrative review process for pursuits?

To ensure that current policies are being followed and to make any changes that may be required Signup and view all the answers

What happens to pursuits that are not justified?

They are forwarded to the Chain of Command for further review Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the documentation of pursuits that are not justified?

Copies of video and radio transmissions, as well as other relevant information Signup and view all the answers

Who reviews all pursuits?

The Uniform Services Section OIC Signup and view all the answers

What is the outcome of pursuits that are justifiable and comply with policy?

They are documented and no further action is taken Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the review of deputy’s reports by the supervisor in charge of the pursuit?

To ensure that all reports are complete and accurate Signup and view all the answers

What should a deputy do when an equipment failure occurs during a pursuit involving an emergency signal device, radio, brakes, steering or other essential mechanical equipment?

Terminates participation in the pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

When a pursuit enters another jurisdiction, what is the role of Communications?

Request the jurisdiction to respond and take over the pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

What information must the primary deputy include in an offense report after a pursuit?

Weather conditions, road surfaces, and population of the area where the pursuit took place. Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for vessel occupants during a pursuit?

Wear life jackets at all times. Signup and view all the answers

When a pursuit initiated by another agency enters Escambia County, what happens?

All guidelines and restrictions regarding pursuits described in this general order will apply. Signup and view all the answers

What should a supervisor do after a pursuit?

Complete a supplemental report containing information about the pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when the primary unit in a pursuit becomes disabled?

The secondary unit takes over as the primary unit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the patrol supervisor during a pursuit?

To supervise and direct units involved in the pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

When can a pursuit continue outside Escambia County jurisdiction?

If another jurisdiction does not assume the primary position. Signup and view all the answers

What should happen to ECSO vehicles involved in a PIT, Ramming, or Moving Roadblock?

They should be taken out of service for inspection. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

General Order for Emergency Vehicle Operation

Purpose: To provide guidelines for safe operation of emergency vehicles in emergency and pursuit situations.
Policy: Escambia County Sheriff's Office vehicles will be operated in conformance to law and agency guidelines, with due regard for public safety.

Routine Response

Definition: Response to situations that do not pose an immediate threat to human life, without activating emergency equipment.
Guidelines:
- Deputies will respond in a manner consistent with normal traffic flow.
- Posted speed limits, traffic control devices, and signals will be observed.

Response to Hazards

Definition: Response to situations that require expediency to eliminate potential hazards to the public.
Guidelines:
- Officers may activate emergency signal devices to allow orderly and safe transit through congested roadways.

Traffic Enforcement/Special Events

Definition: Deputies may activate emergency signal devices during authorized special events and conduct traffic enforcement activities.

Emergency Response

Definition: Response to emergencies within the agency's jurisdiction.
Guidelines:
- Deputies may operate an emergency unit in emergency mode.
- Prior approval by a supervisor is not required.
- Emergency signal devices, including sirens, revolving or flashing lights, and emergency strobes, will be activated.
- Deputies may exceed the speed limit after weighing the risks of danger to life and property.

Pursuit

Definition: Response to situations where the deputy has a reasonable belief that the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony.
Guidelines:
- Deputies are authorized to pursue vehicles when there is a reasonable belief the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony.
- Stolen vehicles may also be pursued at the discretion of the patrol supervisor.
- The decision to continue a pursuit must be based on the fact that the danger to the public is greater by not attempting to apprehend the suspect.

Pursuit Termination Techniques

PIT (Pursuit Intervention Technique):
- Deputies are encouraged to use PIT to bring an end to a pursuit as soon as practical.
- PIT is only authorized when the deputy has received ECSO-approved training and is currently certified.
Tire Deflation Devices (Stop Sticks):
- Stop Sticks may be used during pursuits with supervisory approval.
- Stop Sticks shall only be deployed by personnel who have received training and are certified.
Ramming:
- Ramming is not authorized against motorcycles or vessels unless the deputy is justified in using deadly force and has supervisory approval.
- Moving Roadblocks:
  - The desirable speed of the suspect's vehicle is less than 50 MPH.
  - Risk factors, such as road conditions, pedestrian traffic, and other obstacles, must be considered.

Primary Unit Responsibilities

The primary unit is responsible for continually evaluating the circumstances of the pursuit and terminating the pursuit if it exceeds the limits of this order or becomes impractical to continue.
The primary unit will notify Communications of any changes in speed, direction of travel, traffic, etc.

Secondary Unit Responsibilities

The secondary unit is authorized to pursue at a safe distance and assist the primary unit.
The secondary unit will assume primary radio communications to allow the primary unit to concentrate on the suspect's actions.

Support Unit Responsibilities

Support units will evaluate their assistance capability by considering distance, number of units, and speed and direction of pursuit.
Support units will maintain a safe distance behind the secondary unit and reduce radio communications to a minimum.

Communications Responsibilities

Communications will clear the radio channel for emergency radio traffic, notify the patrol supervisor, and advise all precincts of the pursuit.

Patrol Supervisor Responsibilities

The on-duty patrol supervisor will assume responsibility for monitoring, upgrading, or terminating the pursuit.
The supervisor will enforce pursuit policies as set forth in this order and direct emergency units into or out of the pursuit.

Intervention

Intervention of a pursued vehicle will only be permitted when all other reasonable means have failed.
Use of roadblocks is only authorized in extreme circumstances that justify the use of deadly force or to protect the public from imminent harm.

Termination of Pursuit

The decision to terminate a pursuit will be made by the primary unit or patrol supervisor.
Once the decision to terminate a pursuit is made, all units involved will immediately slow to the posted speed limit and turn off all emergency equipment.### Pursuit Termination
Unless approved by a pursuit supervisor, all units must cease following a suspect vehicle if the pursuit is terminated for reasons other than apprehension.
The primary unit must inform Communications of the pursuit termination, providing the exact location and last known direction of travel.

Reasons for Termination

Pursuits will be terminated if they expose the public or deputies to more danger than the offense or conditions warrant.
Pursuits will also be terminated if:
- A patrol supervisor or ranking supervisor is unavailable to approve continuation within a reasonable time (1 minute).
- A supervisor orders termination.
- Visual contact with the violator is lost for more than a reasonable time.
- There is no longer a belief that the suspect committed, attempted to commit, or is attempting to commit a forcible felony.
- There is a clear and unreasonable danger to law enforcement officers, fleeing motorists, or other persons.
- Radio contact with the Communications Section is lost.
- Road, sea, time of day, weather, or traffic conditions substantially increase the danger of pursuit.

Individual Unit Termination

Individual emergency units will terminate participation in a pursuit if they experience equipment failure or damage to their vehicle that creates a driving hazard.

Pursuit outside Escambia County

Communications will notify the appropriate jurisdiction when a pursuit is near or has entered their area, advising them of the known criminal charges against the violator.
If another jurisdiction assumes primary responsibility for the pursuit, ECSO units will relinquish their positions and follow at a safe distance.

Other Agency Pursuits

When a pursuit initiated by another agency enters Escambia County, all guidelines and restrictions regarding pursuits apply.
The ECSO patrol supervisor will assume the pursuit supervisory role regarding ECSO participation.

Vessel Regulations during Pursuits

Vessel occupants must wear life jackets at all times during pursuit.
The vessel operator may exceed posted speed zone limits or other regulatory zone limits after weighing the risk of danger to life and property.
The vessel operator may disregard navigation rules after considering the likelihood of injury or damage to life or property.

Reports

Deputies involved in a pursuit must document their involvement immediately after the pursuit.
The primary deputy will initiate an original offense report with the heading "vehicle pursuit," including:
- Initial charge(s).
- Weather conditions and road surfaces at the time of the pursuit.
- Population of the area(s) where the pursuit took place.
- Other deputies involved.
All other deputies involved will complete a supplement report on their involvement.
The supervisor in charge of the pursuit will complete a supplemental report, including:
- Supervisor's actions and involvement.
- Description of any injuries.
- Description of any damage to vehicles or property.

Administrative Review

Every pursuit will be reviewed to ensure that policies are being followed and to make any necessary changes.
The Uniform Services Section OIC will review all pursuits, and those that are not justified will be documented and forwarded through the Chain of Command.

General Order for Emergency Vehicle Operation

Purpose: To provide guidelines for safe operation of emergency vehicles in emergency and pursuit situations.
Policy: Escambia County Sheriff's Office vehicles will be operated in conformance to law and agency guidelines, with due regard for public safety.

Routine Response

Definition: Response to situations that do not pose an immediate threat to human life, without activating emergency equipment.
Guidelines:
- Deputies will respond in a manner consistent with normal traffic flow.
- Posted speed limits, traffic control devices, and signals will be observed.

Response to Hazards

Definition: Response to situations that require expediency to eliminate potential hazards to the public.
Guidelines:
- Officers may activate emergency signal devices to allow orderly and safe transit through congested roadways.

Traffic Enforcement/Special Events

Definition: Deputies may activate emergency signal devices during authorized special events and conduct traffic enforcement activities.

Emergency Response

Definition: Response to emergencies within the agency's jurisdiction.
Guidelines:
- Deputies may operate an emergency unit in emergency mode.
- Prior approval by a supervisor is not required.
- Emergency signal devices, including sirens, revolving or flashing lights, and emergency strobes, will be activated.
- Deputies may exceed the speed limit after weighing the risks of danger to life and property.

Pursuit

Definition: Response to situations where the deputy has a reasonable belief that the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony.
Guidelines:
- Deputies are authorized to pursue vehicles when there is a reasonable belief the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony.
- Stolen vehicles may also be pursued at the discretion of the patrol supervisor.
- The decision to continue a pursuit must be based on the fact that the danger to the public is greater by not attempting to apprehend the suspect.

Pursuit Termination Techniques

PIT (Pursuit Intervention Technique):
- Deputies are encouraged to use PIT to bring an end to a pursuit as soon as practical.
- PIT is only authorized when the deputy has received ECSO-approved training and is currently certified.
Tire Deflation Devices (Stop Sticks):
- Stop Sticks may be used during pursuits with supervisory approval.
- Stop Sticks shall only be deployed by personnel who have received training and are certified.
Ramming:
- Ramming is not authorized against motorcycles or vessels unless the deputy is justified in using deadly force and has supervisory approval.
- Moving Roadblocks:
  - The desirable speed of the suspect's vehicle is less than 50 MPH.
  - Risk factors, such as road conditions, pedestrian traffic, and other obstacles, must be considered.

Primary Unit Responsibilities

The primary unit is responsible for continually evaluating the circumstances of the pursuit and terminating the pursuit if it exceeds the limits of this order or becomes impractical to continue.
The primary unit will notify Communications of any changes in speed, direction of travel, traffic, etc.

Secondary Unit Responsibilities

The secondary unit is authorized to pursue at a safe distance and assist the primary unit.
The secondary unit will assume primary radio communications to allow the primary unit to concentrate on the suspect's actions.

Support Unit Responsibilities

Support units will evaluate their assistance capability by considering distance, number of units, and speed and direction of pursuit.
Support units will maintain a safe distance behind the secondary unit and reduce radio communications to a minimum.

Communications Responsibilities

Communications will clear the radio channel for emergency radio traffic, notify the patrol supervisor, and advise all precincts of the pursuit.

Patrol Supervisor Responsibilities

The on-duty patrol supervisor will assume responsibility for monitoring, upgrading, or terminating the pursuit.
The supervisor will enforce pursuit policies as set forth in this order and direct emergency units into or out of the pursuit.

Intervention

Intervention of a pursued vehicle will only be permitted when all other reasonable means have failed.
Use of roadblocks is only authorized in extreme circumstances that justify the use of deadly force or to protect the public from imminent harm.

Termination of Pursuit

The decision to terminate a pursuit will be made by the primary unit or patrol supervisor.
Once the decision to terminate a pursuit is made, all units involved will immediately slow to the posted speed limit and turn off all emergency equipment.### Pursuit Termination
Unless approved by a pursuit supervisor, all units must cease following a suspect vehicle if the pursuit is terminated for reasons other than apprehension.
The primary unit must inform Communications of the pursuit termination, providing the exact location and last known direction of travel.

Reasons for Termination

Pursuits will be terminated if they expose the public or deputies to more danger than the offense or conditions warrant.
Pursuits will also be terminated if:
- A patrol supervisor or ranking supervisor is unavailable to approve continuation within a reasonable time (1 minute).
- A supervisor orders termination.
- Visual contact with the violator is lost for more than a reasonable time.
- There is no longer a belief that the suspect committed, attempted to commit, or is attempting to commit a forcible felony.
- There is a clear and unreasonable danger to law enforcement officers, fleeing motorists, or other persons.
- Radio contact with the Communications Section is lost.
- Road, sea, time of day, weather, or traffic conditions substantially increase the danger of pursuit.

Individual Unit Termination

Individual emergency units will terminate participation in a pursuit if they experience equipment failure or damage to their vehicle that creates a driving hazard.

Pursuit outside Escambia County

Communications will notify the appropriate jurisdiction when a pursuit is near or has entered their area, advising them of the known criminal charges against the violator.
If another jurisdiction assumes primary responsibility for the pursuit, ECSO units will relinquish their positions and follow at a safe distance.

Other Agency Pursuits

When a pursuit initiated by another agency enters Escambia County, all guidelines and restrictions regarding pursuits apply.
The ECSO patrol supervisor will assume the pursuit supervisory role regarding ECSO participation.

Vessel Regulations during Pursuits

Vessel occupants must wear life jackets at all times during pursuit.
The vessel operator may exceed posted speed zone limits or other regulatory zone limits after weighing the risk of danger to life and property.
The vessel operator may disregard navigation rules after considering the likelihood of injury or damage to life or property.

Reports

Deputies involved in a pursuit must document their involvement immediately after the pursuit.
The primary deputy will initiate an original offense report with the heading "vehicle pursuit," including:
- Initial charge(s).
- Weather conditions and road surfaces at the time of the pursuit.
- Population of the area(s) where the pursuit took place.
- Other deputies involved.
All other deputies involved will complete a supplement report on their involvement.
The supervisor in charge of the pursuit will complete a supplemental report, including:
- Supervisor's actions and involvement.
- Description of any injuries.
- Description of any damage to vehicles or property.

Administrative Review

Every pursuit will be reviewed to ensure that policies are being followed and to make any necessary changes.
The Uniform Services Section OIC will review all pursuits, and those that are not justified will be documented and forwarded through the Chain of Command.

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Description

Guidelines for safe operation of emergency vehicles in emergency and pursuit situations, prioritizing public safety and adhering to laws and agency guidelines.