For most of us, driving means travelling the same familiar routes each day to school, work, or the shops. But when you’re behind the wheel of a police vehicle, your journey can change in an instant.
To equip officers with the skills needed to manage emergency driving on our roads, recruits go through a comprehensive driver training course at the WA Police Force Academy.
Sharpening focus with commentary driving
To improve focus and concentration during high risk driving scenarios, recruits learn a technique known as commentary driving.
Also used by Formula 1 drivers when learning a new circuit, commentary driving involves speaking aloud to describe your actions behind the wheel, what you see ahead, and potential risks and hazards.
While it might feel unusual at first, it quickly becomes second nature, allowing the driver to increase focus and hazard perception by engaging the brain in every action. It’s a skill that not only enhances safety but also builds the confidence needed to hand real world emergencies.
From the classroom to the racetrack
Recruits take their skills up several notches at Wanneroo Raceway. Famous for being a training ground for top drivers like Mark Webber and Daniel Ricciardo, it’s here that Recruits hone their driving techniques and knowledge.
The key elements covered include:
- precise steering, reverse manoeuvrers and obstacle avoidance through tight winding paths
- lane changes, spatial awareness and vehicle stability while driving at higher speeds
- using the Anti-lock Braking System to avoid a hazard in a simulated emergency scenario
- driving a 4WD vehicle on sealed and unsealed surfaces to demonstrate the higher centre of gravity with the larger vehicle
Acting Senior Sergeant Smith from the Driver Training Unit said ‘It’s incredibly important to equip our recruits with the skills necessary to handle the complexity of driving in emergency situations. The skills learnt during this unit ensure the safety of the officer and the public.’
If you’re ready to elevate your driving skills and take control of your career start your journey here.