This is not a thread about how to be an RLSH, but how to train others to prepare for engaging in realistic crime patrols.
For those who don't know me, I have patrolled for over 20 years, and have trained others to patrol for over 10 years. I know how to pick good trainee candidates, and how to mold borderline ones to be better.
Culling and evaluation is the first step in training, as it weeds out those who are not serious about crime patrols, or who misunderstood what they were truly getting into by taking on this challenge.
The four steps to this process are as follows: Dispel myths and explain realities, define motivations, determine personality/attitude, evaluate skills and aptitudes.
Have them prioritize different types of crime (I.e. assault, robbery, rape) to see how they mentally and emotionally may do so in an actual crisis scenario. You can then explain how proper prioritization in a crisis is a vital skill for every team member, and that they WILL be expected to contribute in mass casualty situations until medical help arrives.
Ask what skills are needed for patrol, and in order of importance, and which traits hinder performance. This suggests what they value most about patrolling; what excites them. They most often prioritize based on their perceived skill set. Listing hindrances forces them to begin considering the myriad things that can go wrong on patrol, and their role in mitigating the effects such incidents inflict.
Define motivations. Ask what motivates them to want to patrol for crime, then ask WHY that motivates them. Also determine if the motivation can be resolved (a brother is addicted to drugs, so you want to fight dealers. Resolves if brother stops using). If resovleable, would they patrol after?
This helps determine if the motivation is internal or external. External motivation is rarely sustainable in the long term, and may lead to frustration and lack of focus, missed training sessions, and blowing off patrols. It can create unreliability and disharmony on the team. It can be dangerous.
Determine personality and attitude. If you can't do this already, you shouldn't be training others yet. The reason is to decide how the trainee will best fit in with the team, and to devise the best method of training. Inappropriate attitudes can be adjusted, but I suggest, for the purpose of time, to not train arrogant people or those with "Punished" mental attitudes. They can be worked with, but it is very time consuming.
Evaluate skills and aptitudes. It's important to realize -- especially relative to patrol safety and effectiveness -- that not everyone enjoys the level of skill or knowledge they believe they possess. Get confirmation of every claim. Certificates, licenses, etc. If they claim knowlege of law, hand them an LSAT. If they say they can fight, fight them with your best teammates. A crisis in the field is not the time to discover someone exaggerated their ability. Confirmation makes for more accurate planning on all levels, and ensures you have the team you think you have.
Well, was that long enough? If there is any interest, then its just the beginning.
Dispel myths and explain realities. As the trainer, you are responsible for assuring anyone you train knows what they're getting into before they conduct a crime patrol. Ask them what they "know" about patrols, and what they hope or expect will happen in the field. This will give you insight into their perspective and mindset. You will have a better idea how far they are from the ideal crime patrol mindset, and the subsequent correction of the myths and assumptions will cull those from the group whose fantasies cannot stand the reality.