Patrol, Observation, and Reporting
Patrol Fundamentals
Effective patrol is purposeful, varied, and documented. Know the difference between fixed post, foot patrol, and mobile patrol, and the value of randomizing routes and timing. Observe with all senses; note baselines so anomalies stand out.
Observation
Practice descriptive observation: height, build, clothing, distinguishing marks, direction of travel, vehicle make/model/plate. Avoid conclusions; record facts. Note the difference between what you saw, what you were told, and what you inferred.
Reporting
Reports should answer who, what, when, where, why, and how in plain, chronological order. Use quotation marks for exact statements, and avoid editorializing.
Traps
- Writing conclusions instead of observations.
- Omitting times and locations.
- Relying on memory instead of notes.
- Failing to note witnesses and evidence preservation.
Worked Example
Instead of "the suspect looked suspicious," write "Male, approx. 30, 5'10", red hoodie, dark jeans, exited east on Main at 22:14 carrying a black backpack." Rule of thumb: if you can't describe it, you can't report it.