(June 08, 2016) – Four members of the Sturbridge Police Department received training recently at an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC) held at the Westover Air Reserve Base in Chicopee, MA on May 16-19. The free preventative training program was designed to enhance police officers’ driving skills, ensure safety of both officers and the public, and save money on the municipality’s insurance premiums.
The EVOC comprehensive training program focuses on the safe operation of emergency vehicles. The course includes intensive classroom training followed by hands-on exercises addressing a number of situations regularly encountered while operating emergency vehicles, such as cornering, evasive maneuvers, braking, and backing up. The training enables drivers to become familiar with and practice these extreme driving maneuvers in a safe, off-road setting. The course helps them avoid accidents and become better prepared for real-life emergencies.
"We are fortunate that MIIA is able to provide our officers with such quality training,"said Chief Thomas Ford. "Emergency vehicle operation skills are essential and regular EVOC training is an important part of our annual training regime."
The Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA), property and casualty insurance provider for all participating municipalities, presented the EVOC training. Sturbridge participates in this and other no-cost MIIA training and educational courses to enhance employee safety and reduce risk. Upon completion of this and other MIIA risk- and loss-prevention programs, the municipality is eligible to receive insurance premium credits through the MIIA Rewards Programs.
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