As 2024 draws to a close, it’s helpful to take time to reflect on a year of growth, challenges and innovation in public safety. From leadership insights to advances in technology, Lexipol’s blog has provided vital guidance for public safety professionals seeking real-world guidance and thought-provoking analysis. The articles we published this year provide helpful tools to navigate the complexities of modern public safety, offering lessons that should resonate across law enforcement, fire and EMS, corrections and beyond.
This year’s standout articles tackled a wide range of critical issues, including the importance of resilient leadership, the role of digital systems to help reduce risk and strategies to address challenges unique to first responders. Whether focusing on leadership development, mental and physical health, or the impact of legal trends, these posts offer valuable perspectives for public safety leaders striving to enhance operations and serve their communities more effectively.
We hope you’ll take time to review the most popular Lexipol articles of 2024 to underscore key lessons and discover new insights to carry forward into 2025!
Public Safety Articles
Many of the articles we publish apply to all fields of public safety. Here is a roundup of the most popular content from the year:
1. Taking on “Bud”: Why Reckless Employees Have No Place in Public Safety, by Gordon Graham
Lexipol co-founder Gordon Graham highlights the dangers of reckless behavior among first responders, using the example of “Bud,” a U.S. Air Force pilot whose disregard for the commonsense rules of safety led to a deadly crash. Graham emphasizes that this kind of behavior — so often overlooked or excused — poses serious risks and can have catastrophic consequences. Leaders in public safety must address careless conduct promptly to prevent avoidable tragedies.
2. Flexibility and Positive Attitude: Keys to Resilient Leadership, by Lexipol Team
Being a resilient leader in public safety requires the flexibility to adapt to unexpected challenges. A positive attitude is also needed to inspire teams both in normal operations and during high-stress situations. With key points taken from a Lexipol webinar with Battalion Chief (Ret.) Bruce Bjorge and Chief (Ret.) Dave Funkhouser, this article covers how public safety leaders must embrace change, maintain control over their mindset and acknowledge when they need help. By modeling these traits, Bjorge and Funkhouser point out, leaders can build stronger, more adaptable teams that can thrive under pressure.
3. No New Ways to Get in Trouble: Why Public Safety Needs a Better “Learning Management System,” by Gordon Graham
Public safety agencies often fail to learn from past mistakes — unlike the aviation industry, where lessons are systematically shared to prevent the same errors from happening again and again. In this article, Gordon Graham talks about robust learning management systems and how they can help ensure key takeaways from investigations, close calls and high-risk incidents are collected and disseminated. By crafting structured approaches to analyze and apply lessons learned, public safety leaders can improve performance and reduce avoidable tragedies.
Honorable Mention: Public Safety Needs Good Leaders — Are You One of Them? by Lexipol Team
Good public safety leaders inspire trust, adapt to change and prioritize skill development to manage crises effectively. This summary of the Lexipol white paper, “Finding the Leader in You,” by Capt. (Ret.) Rex Scism, highlights key leadership abilities such as identifying future talent, strategic thinking, managing change, decision-making and influencing others. By honing these skills, leaders can improve team retention, reduce burnout and foster efficient, more resilient organizations.
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Fire Service Articles
Fire and EMS personnel face numerous challenges. In 2024, our blogs provided guidance on issues from targeted violence to leadership development. Here are the standout fire service articles from 2024:
1. Violence Against Fire and EMS — Understanding and Mitigating Risks, by Lexipol Team
Distilled from a Lexipol webinar this article features a timely discussion about assaults and other violent acts on fire and emergency medical personnel. While attacks against firefighters and EMTs reflect broader societal tensions, there are still things that can be done to mitigate the problem. Effective policies, ongoing training and collaboration with law enforcement are essential to reduce these dangers and help ensure safety. Departments must also address the psychological toll of on-the-job violence by providing mental health support and resilience training.
2. The Need for Processes and Procedures in the Fire Service, by Dave Cline
Standardized processes and procedures are paramount for improving the safety, efficiency and performance of fire service operations. Lexipol fire veteran Dave Cline describes how planning for ideal conditions can help departments identify weaknesses, address risks and ensure personnel have the training and tools necessary to respond effectively. Structured procedures not only streamline job functions but also enhance service delivery and safety for both responders and the community.
3. Leadership Development for the New Fire Chief, by Lexipol Team
To get off on the right foot, new fire service leaders must build trust, understand the political landscape and actively listen before implementing changes. In these key takeaways from the Lexipol webinar, “Stepping Up as Chief: Navigating Leadership in Your First 100 Days,” a panel of veteran fire leaders explains how to set the stage for effective leadership. Some strategies include building strong relationships with subordinates and stakeholders, being transparent in communication style and fostering accountability. By balancing patience, engagement and decisive action, new chiefs can establish a foundation for long-term success.
Honorable Mention: Why Fire Trucks Crash, by Greg Rogers
Fire apparatus crashes commonly result from human errors, insufficient training and policy deficiencies, making driver behavior a critical factor in safety. The nationwide staffing shortage in the fire service is also a contributing factor. Overemphasis on quick response times and tolerance of aggressive or inexperienced drivers increase the risks, says author Greg Rogers. Fire departments can reduce roadway incidents through ongoing driver training, strict policy enforcement and fostering a safety-first culture that prioritizes responsible driving over speed.
Law Enforcement Articles
America’s law enforcement officers play a vital role in protecting rights and upholding the rule of law, but they have faced an uphill battle in many areas. Here are our top articles about law enforcement, for law enforcement:
1. Civil Unrest Preparedness for Your Law Enforcement Agency, by Lexipol Team
Effective preparation for incidents of civil unrest requires law enforcement agencies to establish clear policies, provide thorough training and coordinate with other agencies to manage risks and keep the peace. Readiness is needed to safeguard both public safety and First Amendment rights. To guide and protect officers under stress, law enforcement leaders must maintain control and make critical decisions in real time. Transparent communication also helps address public perception and maintain trust during these incredibly fraught, high-pressure events.
2. Enhancing Law Enforcement with Grant Funding for Drone Technology, by Lisa Lovering
Advanced drone technology is one innovation in public safety with the potential to transform law enforcement. Drones can provide overwatch capabilities that enhance situational awareness, improve response times and support critical operations. Drones can help with search and rescue, disaster recovery and crime scene documentation. While the cost of drones (and concomitant training) can be challenging for many agencies, federal, state and private grants offer financial support for acquiring and deploying them. Successful funding applications require departments to clearly articulate the anticipated operational benefits and collaborate with other agencies to maximize the positive impact on their communities.
3. Recent Polls on Policing Show Positive Trends for U.S. Law Enforcement, by Lexipol Team
The past several years have been difficult for law enforcement — especially when it comes to community perceptions. But the news isn’t all bad. Recent polling indicates increasing public trust in law enforcement, with favorability ratings rising from prior years and ranking second only to the military among U.S. institutions. Proactive policy reforms focused on transparency and accountability have done much to improve public perception of police officers and agencies. Safety, fairness and equal treatment need to remain top priorities for police agencies for this trend to continue.
Honorable Mention: Tracking Officer Performance — From Hiring Through Employment, by Michael Ranalli
It’s axiomatic that it’s impossible to manage what you don’t measure. Tracking officer performance from hiring through employment is essential to identify risks and ensure accountability in law enforcement. Comprehensive background investigations, continuous performance evaluations and adherence to high standards of conduct can prevent poor hiring decisions and reduce incidents of officer misconduct. Effective leadership and consistent oversight contribute to safer communities and stronger public trust.
Corrections Articles
While corrections professionals help ensure the secure and humane management of incarcerated persons, there are many areas within corrections that still require rethinking. Here are the must-read corrections articles from this year:
1. Special Populations in Corrections: Elderly Inmates, by Gary Cornelius
The increasing population of elderly inmates in U.S. corrections facilities poses unique challenges for corrections officers and leaders. Some of these include increased medical requirements, mental health issues and vulnerability to exploitation by other inmates. By adapting supervision strategies, officers can help protect older inmates from predatory behaviors and ensure their specialized needs are met. Effectively addressing these issues promotes dignity and legal compliance while maintaining standards of safety.
2. Preserving Life: The Importance of Jail Suicide Prevention Training, by Gary Cornelius
Suicide is a critical issue in the U.S. jail system, as inmates tend to take their own lives at rates about four times higher than in the rest of the population. Some contributing factors include mental illness, looming legal issues and personal crises. Preventing jail suicide requires training to help corrections officers recognize warning signs, understand risk factors and intervene quickly when necessary. In fact, corrections officers often serve as a lifeline for inmates in distress. Implementing robust prevention programs that include ongoing education and empathetic interactions can save lives and cultivate safer correctional environments.
3. Why Do Correctional Officers Have Inappropriate Relationships With Inmates? by Lexipol Team
Inappropriate relationships between corrections officers and inmates can be caused by power dynamics, emotional vulnerability and personal struggles (both for the officer and the inmate). These issues are exacerbated by insufficient training and supervision. Such relationships compromise facility safety, lead to security risks and violate ethical and legal standards. Implementing bright-line policies, providing clear training, and fostering accountability are all critical to preventing these harmful behaviors.
Honorable Mention: The Value of Jail Programs, by Gary Cornelius
Jail programs play an important role in addressing some of the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. These include substance abuse, lack of education and poor job skills. By providing structured activities, vocational training and other educational opportunities, jail programs can help support inmates in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Effective implementation of jail programs benefits both inmates and the community by reducing recidivism and encouraging personal growth.
Legal Articles
Staying up to date on current legal trends and cases is essential to help ensure law enforcement officers’ actions align with evolving legal standards. Some of the most popular 2024 legal analysis articles include:
1. Body-Worn Camera Video Supports Award of Qualified Immunity, by Ken Wallentine
Body-worn cameras (BWCs) represent a valuable innovation in public safety, and in this case, BWC footage played a pivotal role in supporting qualified immunity for officers involved in a disputed arrest, providing clear evidence that their actions were appropriate. The recordings demonstrated that the officers’ detention and use of force were consistent with legal standards, dispelling claims of excessive force and unlawful conduct. This case highlights the importance of BWCs in resolving factual disputes and ensuring accountability in law enforcement operations.
2. Qualified Immunity for Shooting a Suspect Trying to Clear a Gun Malfunction, by Ken Wallentine
An officer’s use of deadly force against a suspect who tried to shoot him was deemed objectively reasonable by the court of appeals, which referenced the immediate threat posed to the officer and the split-second nature of his decision-making in its ruling. The decision emphasized that officers are not required to pause for reflection to assess factors like ballistic glass or potential mental illness during life-threatening situations. The decision in Naji v. City of Dearborn stresses the legal standards supporting split-second decisions made in response to imminent threats of serious harm.
3. Use of Force Case Law — Trends to Look Out For, by Lexipol Team
Trends in use-of-force case law tend to emphasize the complexity and situational nature of evaluating police actions. Doing so requires nuanced analysis of circumstances and ethical adherence to changing legal standards. The enduring “objectively reasonable” standard from Graham v. Connor continues to guide such evaluations, while courts increasingly scrutinize officers’ decision-making leading up to use-of-force incidents. This article, drawn from a Lexipol webinar featuring Chief (Ret.) Mike Ranalli, shows how comprehensive, scenario-based training can help equip officers with the skills to navigate high-pressure situations.
Honorable Mention: Emerging Tech and Law Enforcement: Forensic Genetic Genealogy, by Prathi Chowdri
Forensic genetic genealogy combines gene sequencing, traditional genealogy and real-world investigative techniques to solve cold cases, identify human remains and narrow suspect pools. By leveraging open-source DNA databases, law enforcement investigators have achieved significant breakthroughs in several high-profile cases, including the storied Golden State Killer murders from the 1970s and 80s. Staying within the ethical guardrails of forensic genetic genealogy will help ensure its continued acceptance and effectiveness in both legal proceedings and public opinion, keeping it viable as a tool in modern policing.
From leadership insights to innovations in technology, Lexipol’s blog has provided vital guidance for public safety professionals seeking real-world guidance and thought-provoking analysis.
Wellness Articles
The physical, emotional and mental health of our nation’s first responders are vital to their ability to respond effectively while safeguarding their own careers and personal well-being. The following are the top articles on wellness-related topics from 2024:
1. Court Rulings Sound Alarm on Confidentiality in Peer Support Group Interventions, by Emily Hitchings
Confidentiality is a critical component of peer support group interventions and critical incident stress debriefings. These highly sensitive discussions face increasing scrutiny due to recent court rulings that challenge their protected nature. The legal rulings in Boston and Vancouver, Washington, highlight the potential for first responders to avoid participation if their statements can be forcibly disclosed during legal proceedings. Maintaining strict confidentiality policies is essential to ensure the efficacy and trust in peer support programs, which are critical for addressing trauma and mental health challenges among public safety personnel.
2. Why Everyone Should Care About Police Mental Health, by Mihailis Diamantis
The mental wellness of law enforcement officers is critical for effective and safe police operations, as officers face high rates of PTSD, burnout and suicide due to demanding work conditions and constant exposure to trauma. Addressing these challenges requires eliminating stigma, implementing wellness programs, and promoting crisis intervention training and better work-life balance. Furthermore, a national effort to gather relevant data and improve mental health resources would enhance officer well-being and public safety.
3. Preparing Your Peer Support Team for Civil Unrest, by Emily Hitchings
Making sure your peer support teams are adequately prepared for civil unrest events can help ensure personnel are equipped to shoulder the mental and emotional burden that comes with these high-stress situations. Effective readiness involves integrating peer support into operational plans, securing leadership commitment and providing team members with well-defined roles and up-to-date training. Proactive outreach and post-incident care can increase resilience and reduce the long-term psychological impacts on first responders and their families.
Honorable Mention: When Is the Right Time for Therapy for First Responders? by Rachelle Zemlok
First responders face unique mental health challenges due to the constant, relentless exposure to trauma collateral to public safety jobs. Because of this, intervention and therapy can be essential for maintaining resilience. Recognizing warning signs — such as changes in behavior or increased anxiety — can help individuals seek support before issues escalate. Access to peer support groups, agency-sponsored programs and culturally sensitive therapists ensures tailored care, maintaining long-term mental well-being and operational effectiveness.
Explore Lexipol’s blog for insightful articles on topics relevant to public safety and the people who work to support it. Also, follow us on social media for articles on critical topics covering challenges and innovations in public safety, plus advice on how to improve personal and agency operations. You can also subscribe to our newsletters to get the latest updates delivered directly to your inbox:
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