Burlington Police Department Hosts Successful De-Escalation Training

BURLINGTON – Chief Thomas P. Browne is pleased to share that the Burlington Police Department hosted a successful de-escalation training class.

Training was held in three-hour sessions on Aug. 11 and Aug. 18.Training was free and offered to public-safety partners at the Burlington Police Station. Attendees included security from the Burlington Mall, Winchester Hospital, and Copley Place Mall in Boston. 

Training covered de-escalation tactics and active-shooter scenarios, both taught by Lt. Glen Mills, and basic autism recognition for first responders taught by Officer Stephen Papagno.

Lt. Mills covered steps to take when faced with a dangerous situation, and how to respond to extreme acts of violence in the workplace. For example, Lt. Mills challenged participants to think about the appropriate response, and how to protect themselves and others. He also discussed responses to “silent 911 calls” where the caller may not be able to speak during an emergency. 

Basic Autism Recognition for First Responders was taught by Officer Papagno, who is the Department’s Autism Liaison. Officer Papagno highlighted the challenges faced by those who are on the autism spectrum and how first responders may assist them in certain situations. 

Officer Papagno emphasized the need for patience and understanding as some individuals on the autism spectrum may have a difficult time communicating or expressing themselves, especially if they are over-stimulated or panicked. 

Lt. Mills also taught de-escalation, a variety of techniques used to reduce or eliminate the risk of violence or disruptive behavior through verbal and non-verbal communication. De-escalation tactics are used to mitigate and evaluate situations by communicating instead of reacting.

Lt. Mills emphasized that communication is the first step to understanding. Everyone wants to be respected, and by treating others with kindness and respect, it can help mitigate situations. 

“If we are willing to listen to one another, we are able to emphasize with others, and see another person’s point of view,” said Lt. Mills. “If we can understand each other to some degree, we are then able to move forward and talk through situations safely and effectively.”

Educational handouts were provided, including critical task information, emergency preparedness steps, and an eight-step process to use when trying to defuse a situation. 

After training was complete, attendees participated in Burlington Police’s virtual simulator to practice their new skills in a simulated real-life scenario. 

The goal of the training was to teach security personnel, those who are interacting with the public typically before police departments arrive, the importance of evaluating instead of reacting in high-pressure situations. De-escalation can be used during any part of public safety jobs. Starting a conversation, communicating in intense situations, and keeping a calm and patient composure can make a significant difference in making everyone feel safe.

“It is important to remain calm and evaluate situations before immediately reacting,” said Lt. Mills. “By de-escalating a situation before it gets out of control, you can have a more positive outcome from that situation.” 

Training is offered three to four times a year. Lt. Mills hopes to be able to host advanced courses in the future. 

“We have a department that is committed to training, learning, and improving every day,” said Chief Browne. “Our training is offered to anyone who is willing to learn. De-escalation is important to every-day-policing just as much as high-stakes scenarios. We are proud to be able to offer this course and many others to individuals who want to understand the importance of communicating with their community at large.”

Community groups are encouraged to contact Lt. Mills if they are interested in taking part in future classes. Burlington-based businesses and non-profits are encouraged to contact Lt. Mills if they are interested in on-site workplace safety training. 

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