West Fargo Approves $95K for VR Training System
During the Monday, Jan. 8 City Commission meeting, the West Fargo City Commission gave its approval to the West Fargo Police Department’s request to purchase a $95,000 virtual reality (VR) training system. The funding for this purchase comes from Public Safety Sales Tax funds, which are specifically allocated for police and fire operations, equipment, and buildings. This investment reflects the city’s commitment to provide its officers with the most advanced training tools available.
Exclusive Features of West Fargo’s New VR Training System
The VR training system that the West Fargo Police Department will be acquiring is the Street Smarts VR system. This system stands out with its exclusive features, including a partnership with the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT). Endorsed by the FBI as the gold standard of active shooter training, ALERRT’s pre-made, scripted active shooter scenarios will allow officers to practice essential skills such as room clearing and crime scene processing.
Additionally, the Street Smarts VR system offers an array of real-world scenarios that officers can train in. One notable addition to the system for 2024 is content on responding to mental health calls for service. Developed in collaboration with mental health professionals, these scenarios ensure that the depicted actions accurately represent the challenges officers may encounter in the field. This comprehensive training tool will equip West Fargo officers with the skills they need to handle a wide range of situations.
West Fargo Police Department Takes Training to Next Level with VR
With the acquisition of the Street Smarts VR system, the West Fargo Police Department is poised to take its training program to the next level. By immersing officers in hundreds of real-life scenarios, the VR system will provide invaluable hands-on experience that traditional training methods cannot replicate. Chief Pete Nielsen expressed his optimism about the impact this new training tool will have on the department, stating that it will benefit not only the officers and staff but also the community as a whole. As the metro region continues to grow, it is crucial for the police department to keep up with the evolving needs and challenges they face.
West Fargo Becomes First in North Dakota to Adopt VR Training
By approving the purchase of the Street Smarts VR system, the West Fargo Police Department has become the first agency in North Dakota to adopt this cutting-edge training technology. This milestone demonstrates the department’s commitment to staying at the forefront of law enforcement training methods and ensuring that its officers are prepared for the complex and dynamic nature of their work. As other agencies in the state observe the success of the VR training system in West Fargo, it may serve as a catalyst for more widespread adoption of this innovative approach to training.
Public Safety Sales Tax Funds West Fargo’s VR Training System
The funds for the VR training system were obtained through the one-half percent sales tax that went into effect on July 1, 2023. This specific tax is dedicated exclusively to supporting police and fire operations, equipment, and buildings. By utilizing these funds, the West Fargo City Commission reinforces its commitment to investing in the safety and efficiency of the police department. The decision to allocate the Public Safety Sales Tax towards the acquisition of the VR training system highlights the importance of providing law enforcement officers with the necessary resources to carry out their duties effectively.
Analyst comment
Positive news: West Fargo approves $95k for VR training system and becomes first in North Dakota to adopt VR training. The investment reflects the city’s commitment to advanced training for officers. Analyst: The market for VR training systems in law enforcement may see increased demand as other agencies observe the success and adopt this innovative approach.
