The Ultimate Police Kit and Equipment Checklist

What Police Kit Do UK Police Officers Use?

We know that police officers are faced with a wide array of challenges every day in their roles, as they work to protect and serve their Cities, Towns and Communities. From responding to emergency calls to conducting investigations, their job requires them to be constantly prepared for any situation that may arise. This is why having the right equipment is crucial for their safety and effectiveness. This extensive guide examines the police equipment, tools, vehicles, and technology used by Police Officers in the UK. Let's delve a little deeper and explore what kit and equipment is used by Policer Officers in the UK...

Police Uniform

When we think of the police, one of the first images that comes to mind is their distinctive uniform. The iconic police uniform is not just a symbol of authority, but it also serves a practical purpose in the line of duty. At the core of the UK police equipment list is the standard-issue police uniform, which is carefully designed to meet the needs of officers on the job.

The standard-issue police uniform is a key component of the UK police equipment list. Male constables and sergeants in England and Wales commonly wear the custodian helmet during foot patrols, while female officers wear a bowler helmet. The uniform consists of a dark-coloured shirt with insignia (reflective), Trousers a Patrol Belt for carrying equipment, and durable and comfortable Boots. In certain cases, high-visibility jackets are also provided for enhanced safety in low-visibility situations.

What Equipment Do Police Officers Use In The UK?

One of the most essential pieces of Patrol Equipment for police officers is their Duty Belt. This belt holds all the necessary tools and weapons that an officer may need in the line of duty. These may include a firearm (gun), a baton, handcuffs, CS gas (replaced now by PAVA spray), Body Camera, a torch, a taser and a police radio. The duty belt is designed to evenly distribute the weight of these items to prevent strain on the officer's back and hips.

Body Armour:

Police officers frequently wear body armour, also known as stab vests, in the UK. These vests provide protection against projectiles with lower velocity, pointed objects, and bladed weapons, such a knife.

In riskier or more dangerous circumstances, officers may choose to wear bullet-resistant vests, which provide extra defence against projectiles with a higher velocity. Armoured response teams and other special teams are usually the only ones equipped with bullet-resistant vests.

What are the Essential Police Tools?

High Lumen Torch:

Police officers use a variety of tools to aid them in their duties. One of the most common tools is the torch. This tool is essential for officers who may find themselves in dark or low-light situations. a torch with high lumens and rechargeable batteries are recommended for police officers and security officers as they provide brighter and longer-lasting light.

Police Radio:

Effective communication is vital for both police and security officers. This allows officers to communicate with their colleagues and dispatchers, providing them with crucial information and updates on the situation at hand. Police and security radios are designed to be durable and have a long battery life to ensure constant communication, there are also a number of pouches and coverings for police radios to protect them from extreme weather.

Police Handcuffs and Restraints:

In the world of Policing, having the right tools at your disposal is crucial for maintaining control and ensuring the safety of both officers and detainees.Two such tools that are indispensable for restraining individuals who pose a threat are handcuffs and restraints. While chained-style handcuffs may be prevalent in other countries, the UK police opt for rigid handcuffs for their enhanced control and reduced risk of wrist injury.

Rigid handcuffs, also known as rigid bar handcuffs, provide officers with a stronger grip and increased control over detainees.

This is particularly important when dealing with individuals who are combative or posing a danger to themselves or others. The rigid design of these handcuffs minimises the risk of the detainee being able to twist or manipulate their wrists, making it easier for officers to maintain control over the situation.

In addition to providing enhanced control, rigid handcuffs also offer another important benefit – reducing the risk of wrist injury. Unlike chain-link-style handcuffs, which can put pressure on the delicate bones and tendons in the wrist, rigid handcuffs distribute pressure more evenly. This can help prevent injuries to both officers and detainees during the restraining process.

Another important aspect of using rigid handcuffs is the added security of carrying a spare key in a separate location. This precaution ensures that even if a key is lost or stolen, officers have a backup plan to safely remove the restraints. This extra layer of security is crucial in high-stress situations where every second counts.

Overall, rigid handcuffs are a vital tool in the police kit, ensuring officers have the means to effectively restrain individuals who pose a threat to themselves or others. The enhanced control, reduced risk of injury, and added security of carrying a spare key make rigid handcuffs a valuable asset in maintaining law and order.

What are the Best Rigid Handcuffs?

TCH830B Handcuffs:

These hinged Black handcuffs are the best on the market to date and used by forces around the world. With its non-reflective surface these cuffs are perfect for covert and tactical law enforcement. Superior models have 17% larger internally than standard.

THC840 Rigid Handcuffs:

Rapidly becoming the standard forces issue - this is a replacement for the Hiatt Speedcuff which are no longer available. THC 840 Handcuffs are total control handcuffs with precision engineering ensuring the rotating arm swings through the handcuff, engaging the 3 independently moving ratchet bars every time.

What other essential equipment do police officers use and need?

Let's move on to another vital piece of kit for a police officer, the baton...

Police Batons:

The baton is a an important piece of kit for UK police officers, serving as a vital tool for self-defense and public order management. While seemingly simple, batons come in various types, each designed with specific functionalities and tactical applications in mind.

From the traditional fixed truncheon to the extendable Automatic Side-Handle Baton (ASH), or the more modern collapsible batons, the UK police have a range of options to choose from, depending on their specific role and operational needs. The choice of baton is carefully considered, balancing the need for effective force with the importance of minimising harm and adhering to strict regulations surrounding its use.

To ensure responsible and efficient usage, thorough training on the ethical and effective use of batons is an integral component of police training. Typically, batons are securely stored on an officer's belt kit using a baton pouch or holder.

Police Tasers:

IThe increasing concern over police use of force in the UK has led many forces to adopt tasers as a less-lethal defense option. Taser training aims to equip officers with an alternative to potentially more harmful tools like batons when encountering aggressive individuals. This approach is intended to bridge the gap between verbal commands and lethal force, offering a means to de-escalate dangerous situations while minimizing the risk of serious injury to both officers and the public.

Tasers, also known as Conducted Energy Devices (CEDs), are weapons that use electrical currents to temporarily incapacitate a person. They work by delivering high-voltage, low-amperage shocks to the body, causing temporary muscle paralysis and intense pain. This immobilises the suspect, allowing officers to safely restrain them without causing any permanent damage. Tasers are typically stored tasers are stored securely in taser vests, harnesses, or holster belts, ensuring that they are easily accessible when needed.

Let's talk Police Vehicles:

Police vehicles are the backbone of law enforcement operations in the UK. They serve a variety of functions, including patrolling communities, responding rapidly to emergency calls, transporting detainees, and providing additional support at crime scenes. Without access to reliable and well-equipped vehicles, police officers would struggle to carry out their duties effectively and efficiently.

What Types of Police Vehicles are used by UK Police Forces?

Patrol Cars/Police Cars:These are the most visible and widely used police vehicles, typically used for everyday patrolling, and responding to routine calls for service. They are equipped with emergency lights, sirens, and communications equipment

Response Vehicles: These high-performance vehicles are used for rapid response to emergencies, such as pursuit driving and handling critical incidents. They are built for speed and agility, allowing officers to reach the scene quickly and effectively.

Armoured Vehicles:

Used in special operations and high-risk scenarios, armoured vehicles provide enhanced protection for officers in dangerous situations. They are equipped with bulletproof glass, reinforced doors, and other security features.

Transport Vans: These vehicles are used for transporting detainees, prisoners, and evidence. They are designed to ensure the safe and secure transfer of individuals while maintaining the chain of custody.

Police Helecopters: Offer distinct aerial viewpoints that are valuable for search and rescue missions, high-speed pursuits, and aerial surveillance. Equipped with cutting-edge technology like thermal imaging cameras and searchlights, they are essential for a range of operations.

Embracing Technology in UK Policing

In today's modern world, technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of policing operations. UK Police forces are continually embracing cutting-edge tech tools to improve traditional policing methods and keep communities safe. Let's take a closer look at some of the innovative technologies that are revolutionising the way police forces operate.

Body Cameras:

Body worn cameras have revolutionised policing by providing an objective record of interactions between officers and the public. These devices, typically secured to an officer's uniform with mounts like the popular klick fast system, capture real-time video and audio, promoting transparency and accountability on both sides of the badge.

The footage serves as crucial evidence in investigations, resolving disputes, and offering valuable insight into police procedures. While the cameras themselves are essential, accessories like camera harnesses are proving to be vital for optimising comfort, security, and camera positioning, further enhancing the effectiveness of this technology.

Computers, Phones & Tablets: The utilisation of technology by the police has been increasing steadily over the years, with the inclusion of computers and tablets. These devices enable officers to access databases, file reports, and perform background checks even while on the move, thereby enhancing their efficiency. These pieces of kit are often accompanied with covers, carry bags or cases.

ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition Systems): The police often use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems to read and check vehicle license plates, helping to identify stolen vehicles and investigate criminal activity.

What Is The Recommended Police Equipment to Buy?

Torch: A dependable, high-quality lumen torch is essential for navigating low-light or nighttime scenarios, assisting in evidence collection and disorienting suspects. If you require a Body cameras, we offer a wide range at the best prices on our website.

Handcuff Keys:It’s wise for officers to keep an extra Universal Handcuff Key on hand, the ZAK Tool Extension Cuff Key Holder is a popular choice for Police Officers.

Multi-Tool: A versatile Multi-Tool is essential for a wide range of tasks in the field, including cutting tape and making minor equipment repairs.

Police Kit Bag: Police officers rely on a Police Kit Bag, which goes beyond being a mere bag, as it provides a mobile storage solution for essential police tools and equipment, enabling them to carry out their duties efficiently.

Heavy Duty Tactical Kit Hanger: Regular hangers are not designed to support the weight of a police officer's tactical gear. However, Heavy Duty Tactical Kit Hangers are specifically designed to securely hold kit items without the risk of hangers breaking or clothes slipping off. These hangers have a weight capacity of up to 150lb, making them ideal for police equipment and police uniform.

Summary:

UK police equipment is a diverse landscape, carefully tailored to meet the demands of each officer's specific role, the unique needs of their police force, and even individual characteristics. From specialised units to community policing, the range of tools and resources is vast. Recognising the importance of equipping officers with the best possible gear, here at Police Supplies we offer a comprehensive selection of police equipment and uniforms.

We pride ourselves on providing top-quality products at competitive prices, further reinforced by our Price Match Promise, ensuring that police officers and forces can access crucial equipment without compromising on quality or budget. This commitment to affordability and excellence underscores the critical importance of providing law enforcement with the resources they need to effectively serve and protect.

Why Choose Police Supplies?

At Police Supplies, we are dedicated to ensuring customer satisfaction while offering exceptional prices on equipment and uniform for police officers. Our expertise guarantees that you receive top-rated products, and with our price match promise, you can be sure you're getting the best deal available.

Don't compromise on quality when it comes to body armour. Choose Police Supplies and experience the difference by shopping with us today.

Contact:

Choosing the best police uniform and equipment can be a tough even armed with all of the answers above, if you are still unsure, our team at Police Supplies would be more than happy to assist you, you can reach us either by calling the team on +44(0)151 548 0144., you can find our opening hours on the Police Supplies contact us page. Alternatively you can email our customer care team anytime on [email protected]. Whether you're looking for boots with specific features or simply need advice on sizing, we're here to help.