Training
Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) officers are selected from volunteers within their law enforcement organizations. Deputies have to serve a minimum tenure within the department before being able to apply for a specialist section, such as SWAT. This tenure requirement is based on the fact that SWAT officers are still law enforcement officers and must have a thorough knowledge of department policies and procedures.
Training Topics
SWAT applicants undergo rigorous selection and training. After deputies have been selected, the potential members must undertake and pass numerous specialist courses that will make them fully qualified SWAT operators. Officers are trained in marksmanship for the development of accurate shooting skills. Other training includes the use of:
- Defensive tactics
- First aid
- Negotiation
- Rappelling and roping techniques
- Sniper training
- Specialized weapons and equipment
They also are trained specifically in the handling and use of special ammunition, such as flash bang grenades, and special less-than-lethal munitions. Of primary importance is close-quarters defensive tactics training, as this will be the deputies' primary mission upon becoming full-fledged SWAT officers. All members of the team are certified SWAT operators by the Texas Tactical Police Officers Association (TTPOA).