OPOTC-certified peace officers, deputies, and troopers employed full- or part-time by an Ohio law enforcement agency.

Every Officer is a Leader – Critical Incident Leadership for Patrol Operations

The first officer, deputy, or trooper on scene—not just supervisors—sets the tone and direction of any critical incident. This course equips every sworn law enforcement professional, regardless of rank or assignment, with the tools to lead when seconds count.

Participants will learn to:

• Recognize essential characteristics of a developing incident
• Identify factors that influence the event’s progression
• Establish clear priorities
• Take timely action to promote de-escalation and initiate effective intervention toward a successful resolution.

Whether you serve in a city, county, or state capacity, leadership starts with the first on scene—because in a crisis, every officer, deputy, and trooper is a leader.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify Critical Incident Characteristics
   • Recognize key indicators and patterns common in developing critical incidents.
   • Differentiate between routine and high-risk situations requiring immediate attention.
2. Analyze Influencing Factors
   • Evaluate environmental, behavioral, and situational factors that shape the dynamics of a critical incident.
   • Consider how time, location, subject behavior, and public safety concerns affect decision-making.
3. Establish Tactical Priorities
   • Determine and prioritize immediate objectives, such as containment, communication, or medical response.
   • Understand and apply the principles of the Priority of Life scale.
4. Demonstrate Sound Decision-Making
   • Apply structured decision-making models under stress.
   • Justify decisions based on officer safety, legal standards, and agency policy.
5. Utilize De-escalation Strategies
   • Implement techniques to reduce volatility and risk during critical encounters.
   • Communicate effectively with subjects, team members, and other first responders to manage conflict.
6. Initiate Tactical Intervention
   • Coordinate timely and effective intervention actions that move the situation toward resolution.
   • Integrate command presence, communication, and resource deployment appropriately.
7. Reflect on Performance and Decision Outcomes
   • Critically review response actions for effectiveness and compliance with best practices.
   • Identify areas for individual or team improvement following a simulated or actual incident.

Note-taking materials

Start Time: Each day begins promptly at 8:00 AM. The course spans a minimum of 8 hours per day and is structured to ensure comprehensive coverage over multiple days.

Note: Students will receive a scheduled lunch break; however, lunch will not be provided. Please plan accordingly and bring your own food and beverages.

If you are allergic to bees, outdoor plants, or animals, please bring your epinephrine pen or other medication.

Life-threatening allergies and pre-existing injuries or conditions must be reported to the OTOA training staff on day one of training.

Attendees are responsible for their ammunition, lodging, transportation, and food.