EXCLUSIVE: How law enforcement trains to handle high-risk scenarios

BANNING, Calif. (KESQ) – Before police officers are ready to make split-second decisions to save lives, their preparation begins with rigorous training.

Law enforcement officers utilize advanced training technology, including Virtual Simulation Training. These immersive simulations help officers refine their tactics, communication, and response protocols for situations like active shooter scenarios, domestic violence calls, and other high-stress, rapidly evolving incidents.

"We're able to train in a controlled environment that if a mistake is made, we can just reset the scenario," said Nelson Romero, one of the operators of the training and Senior Investigator with the District Attorney's office.

The system uses a series of infrared sensors and projectors. The software allows training operators to tailor each scenario and respond to officers' attempts to de-escalate – or escalate – situations.

It uses real firearms, like the Glock 19 handguns used during Tuesday's training, fit with lasers inside the barrels. That allows trainers to track when and where shots are fired in the scenarios.

I tried it for myself and encountered several training scenarios that law enforcement also trains on. From a man armed with a knife closing the distance to a domestic violence incident that turned into a hostage situation, they all felt like the real deal.

Helping contextualize and teach the public about how dynamic these situations are is one of the main reasons law enforcement invites civilians to experience it for themselves.

"We're able to highlight some of the science behind force options and, you know, talk through some difficult conversations," said Romero.

"Everybody can walk away with a good understanding of why sometimes things happen during scenarios."