Jan 2026 - Your Health and Safety Is a Priority

We face a unique set of challenges and risks in our line of work. Sometimes,
this involves being involved in car wrecks and using physical force. Even
though we are trained to handle high-pressure situations, you shouldn’t
neglect prioritizing your own health and safety after these events. Don’t be
afraid to seek medical attention from second responders, the fire department
or a hospital. If you are willing to request medical attention for a suspect, why
wouldn’t you request it for yourself?
Even if you feel physically fine after an incident, you should not assume you
are uninjured. The adrenaline rush that often accompanies these situations
can mask pain and injury. For example, strains, sprains or soft tissue damage
may not be immediately apparent but can have serious consequences if left
untreated. A thorough medical evaluation at a hospital ensures that any
injuries, whether visible or not, are properly diagnosed and treated, potentially
preventing long-term health complications. Don’t wait until you wake up sore
the next day to seek out medical treatment. Get checked out on the
Department’s time.
A trip to the hospital creates an official record of any injuries sustained during
the incident. This documentation is important for several reasons, including
workers’ compensation claims. If you need to file a workers’ compensation
claim, having an official medical record is essential for verifying the claim and
receiving the necessary benefits. You have a limited amount of time under
NRS to make the claim. Although Health and Safety has improved in recent
years (thank you, Malcolm), it’s important to turn in the Occupational Injury
form within seven days. Additionally, if the injury is serious enough that you
may need surgery or you may eventually be rated for a disability, having a
medical record from immediately after the event will help corroborate your
story.
The psychological impact of traumatic incidents, such as being involved in an
officer-involved shooting (OIS) should not be overlooked. While physical
injuries are often the primary concern, the mental and emotional toll can be
just as significant. This is one of the reasons why we urge officers involved in
an OIS to complete an Occupational Injury form. Early detection of issues like
acute stress disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder can lead to quicker
intervention and better outcomes. The weight of being involved in an OIS is
heavy but you’re not required to carry the load by yourself.
After being involved in a car wreck or use-of-force incident, it’s essential that
you prioritize your health and safety by seeking a medical evaluation. This
step ensures that any injuries, both physical and psychological, are promptly
identified and treated while also providing crucial documentation for legal,
administrative and personal protection.

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