10 The Firearms Instructor Issue 50 T he majority of Law Enforcement Professionals that are over 35 years old are familiar with the F.A.T.S. training simulator. F.A.T.S was for many years the initial standard for the simulator training and exposed us to the Use of Force scenario in regards to shoot, don’t shoot, and reaction times. Today there are a variety of companies producing simulators and com- peting for Law Enforcement and Military business. These simulators, whether from Laser Shot, Virtra, IES, TI, Meggitt, or oth- ers in the market provide the opportunity for Law Enforcement and Military person- nel to have a scenario played before them and decide the level of force needed for the scenario. What are the differences in these sys- tems? Is one better than the other? Each system presents a variety of film scenarios to practice or learn from. The typical sce- nario action would be to draw the training laser weapon, acquire target picture, and utilize the deadly force option. Whether it’s an Active Shooter situation within a school, a Domestic Disturbance call or a Terrorist Threat, all of the simulators have the ability to create judgmental Use of Force situations. The systems offer a variety of amenities ranging from single screen to multiple screen widened views, High/Low Definition resolu- tion, laser based shooting (visible laser or infrared), and recoil kits/weapons for weapon firing simulation effects. Scenario branches determine whether the suspect is injured/ deceased, shocked from a Taser, or the sus- pect reacting to a spraying from Oleoresin Capsicum (OC). Some of the simulators offer shock vests, shoot back cannon systems, and other options to train the officer to seek cover or to realize their reaction was too slow for the situation. The main differences all boil down to what an agency is prepared for in pricing and what is desired in amenities with the system. One additional key item is to con- sider when selecting the product to purchase is the Sales Representative and company. It may be detrimental to your overall success to go with a company and Sales Representative that is not experienced in Law Enforcement or Law Enforcement training. Only a hand- ful of the aforementioned companies have former and retired Law Enforcement person- nel and trainers on staff. Capitalize on their training experience and offer of assistance in developing training methods and techniques. A few have experience in training and can assist in agency training development and lesson planning. A few will be focused on getting you the best value for your dollar, truly understanding the system and train- ing relationship. Law Enforcement training experience is vital to understanding the com- plexities, time restraints, and needs involved conducting effective simulator training. How do you train with a simulator system? Training with a Firearms Simulator by Shannon W. Lightsey