Public Order and Incident Command
Public order policing and incident command require a structured approach to crowds, disorder and major events. A sergeant must understand the command structure, the proportionality principle, and the legal framework for public order offences and the use of force.
Concepts to master
- Command roles: gold, silver and bronze, and the flow of decisions.
- Public order offences and the requirement to identify and warn where practicable.
- Use of force: lawful, necessary and proportionate; recorded.
- Crowd dynamics and de-escalation as the default.
- Media and community communication during incidents.
Traps
- Confusing tactical decisions with command decisions.
- Using force without recording the justification.
- Failing to consider less restrictive options.
Rule of thumb
Apply the PLAN test: Proportionate, Lawful, Accountable, Necessary. Worked example: before ordering a dispersal, the sergeant confirms the legal power, gives a clear warning where practicable, records the decision and the reasons, and ensures the response is the least restrictive effective option.