Firsthand look at deputy drivers training

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Tragically, this year six California officers have died as a result of a traffic collisions. Local law enforcement agencies are taking steps to educate their deputies.

The sirens are blaring, but this isn't an emergency, it's part of drivers training for Fresno County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) deputies.

"Driving is one of the most dangerous things that we do and we do it all the time. Historically more deputies and law enforcement officers, are lost from driving than from firearms," said Scott Weishaar , FCSO deputy.

Weishaar is one the program instructors. First, he teaches lessons about buckling up and safety. Next its to the track.

I had a chance to get in the drivers seat and behind the wheel. Navigating the course was trickier than I thought.

Then, a serious lesson about how to drive while pursuing vehicles.

Weishaar: "Pursuits are extremely dangerous. There's a lot going through a deputy's mind during a pursuit. They are constantly weighing basically, risk versus reward. Is the violation or the reason I want to stop this guy worth the pursuit?"

Besides driving, I am instructed to use the radio and give location and suspect descriptions and to watch for traffic.

Amanda: "It's definitely very powerful and you have all that going on and the call."

Scott: "A lot to think about?"

Amanda: "Yah."

The training facility is set up on a course, but also simulates county roads. "It's consistent with what we drive in. It's a controlled environment so if they make mistakes they make it out here, where no one is going to get hurt," said Weishaar.

Authorities say they hope the training at this facility will help their deputies the next time their on call, so they can protect the public and come home at the end of the day.