Gordon Graham
Category: Public Safety

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s Tip is for all my friends in public safety.

How many of you regularly inspect your vehicle before starting a shift?

We all know being safe on the job is important. But here’s a question. How many of you drive a departmental vehicle in the regular performance of your duties? Silly question, right? Here’s another one. How many of you regularly inspect your vehicle before starting a shift? Do you have a checklist to assist you in this process? Sadly, I’ve seen many examples of vehicles failing at critical times on the job. Sometimes these failures have catastrophic effects. 

Preparing yourself for duty is extremely important. It’s equally important to ensure your assigned vehicle is ready for your shift. This means checking things such as tires, your emergency equipment, and fluid levels. You should also perform an inventory to make sure you have required equipment and supplies. Now, I know what you’re thinking. Hey, Gordon, I’m not a mechanic. Friends, no significant mechanical skill is necessary to check the obvious.  

A truck driver is required to conduct a pre-trip inspection before driving a commercial vehicle. This inspection typically involves checking hundreds of critical items before heading down the road. Police patrol vehicles are generally capable of speeds well over 100 miles per hour. Firefighters drive large apparatus that carry critical equipment necessary for helping those in need. None of that matters if you fail to arrive on the scene safely.  

It’s easy to overlook this simple task when preparing for a shift. Calls are pending and you’re anxious to hit the road. But please don’t forget to perform a vehicle inspection before you head out. It takes minutes to do, and it could save your life. Your agency and the public depend on you to provide assistance in times of need. Conducting routine vehicle inspections can help minimize the chance of mechanical failure. Do your part so you can go home safely after every shift. 

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Gordon Graham signing off.