Advanced training benefits West Chicago community

West Chicago, Illinois: November 14, 2013 - The Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) welcomed Commander Eric Shipman of the West Chicago Police Department to the Respiratory Protection: Program Development and Administration (RP) course at the CDP this week. Commander Shipman has served in law enforcement for more than 20 years, and currently manages his department's Air Purification Respirator (APR) program. The advanced, formal training provides an opportunity for enhanced skills that will benefit the department and the public he serves.

“We work like we train, so we have to train like we work,” said Shipman. “Police work and firefighting, both of which I have first-hand experience, requires knowledge of the latest technology and maintaining our skills. Training helps us not only save other people's lives, but it's critical in saving our own life too. We're in a people helping business and if you aren't willing to take the time and effort to train, you aren't really helping anyone,” he added. “Training is very important and the CDP makes each course a priority. Everyone here is incredibly professional.”

Commander Shipman has also served as a firefighter, and has played a role in respiratory protection at other agencies. He is now responsible for ensuring the proper fit and wear of all respirators issued to officers in his department. Shipman is also a huge advocate for advanced level training.

“We are establishing a more formal fit-test program for our police officers,” he said. “This course provides better training for respirator use and provides critical information to develop and administer a respiratory protection program. All of our officers are issued APRs for potential incidents, so this week's training is important to what we are doing in West Chicago.”