55C - Emergency messages for Residents - 2019

Browse Search

Policy & Procedure Page 1 of 4 Lexington Police Department Subject: Emergency Messages for Residents Policy Number: 55C Accreditation Standards: Reference: 55.2.6; 81.2.11 Effective Date: 1/1/11  New  Revised Revision Dates: 1/24/19 By Order of: Mark J. Corr, Chief of Police GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS AND GUIDELINES This policy applies to notifications made to citizens, of a death, serious injury, or illness of a family or household member. One of the most unpleasant duties for a police officer is making a notification that a loved one has been killed or seriously injured. The presence of a police officer arriving in the middle of the night to make a notification is every parent’s worst nightmare. Upon hearing such terrible news, people react in many different ways. Often, people receiving the news are in disbelief and have trouble comprehending what they are being told. Reactions include denial, anger, hysteria, and silence. Police officers may provide comfort and help the recipients obtain the support of other friends, family and clergy. People with medical conditions may also need additional support including medical assistance. Death notifications involving young children or teenagers can be particularly traumatic, not only for the parents, but for the officers as well. Police officers may be haunted for years with the memories of delivering such terrible news. A debriefing with a counselor may be appropriate in some cases and should be sought, if needed through the Town of Lexington Employee Assistance Program or other available resources. It is the policy of the Lexington Police Department that the next-of-kin of deceased, seriously injured, or seriously ill persons shall be promptly notified with consideration and compassion.