Today's law enforcement officers face unprecedented challenges with expanding responsibilities.  In addition to responding to calls for service and deterring crime, they are now charged with protecting their communities against domestic and foreign threats on a daily basis. Add to that the increase in cultural tensions and civil hostilities from community members they are sworn to protect.

Police departments working on special projects that are funded by federal or state government agencies can have positive impacts on their communities. At the same time, the extra hours of overtime often required for these initiatives must be monitored and deployed fairly in order to maximize the benefits and control excess spending.

The potential link between 48/96 shift schedules and sleep deprivation can pose unique risks for firefighters. The danger of sleep deprivation tends to be compounded by a high volume of calls. When a firefighter cannot get adequate sleep on the second day of a shift, cognitive performance can suffer, putting lives in danger.

The U.S. is a racially diverse country and diversity will continue to be a prominent consideration well into the future. Increasing workforce diversity within public safety organizations is a key consideration that builds community trust and legitimacy.

While diversity practices adopted by public safety agencies vary, they all focus on key areas that include recruitment, hiring, and retention. Each successful diversity-building effort also shares a few best practices.