Swift and Secure: The Advantages of Bike Patrols in Hospital Environments

Introduction

Utilizing bikes in the hospital security field offers numerous advantages, as demonstrated by Providence Health in Portland, Oregon. Their dedicated bike patrol team responds to a variety of calls, including elopement, assaults, and occasionally administering Narcan. The mobility and speed of bikes allow security personnel to navigate the hospital grounds quickly, reaching areas that might be inaccessible to vehicles. This rapid response capability is crucial in emergencies, ensuring timely intervention and potentially saving lives. Additionally, the presence of bike patrols acts as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety within the hospital environment.

The broader implications of bike patrols extend beyond immediate security benefits. Originating from

Seattle Police Department’s innovative use of mountain bikes to navigate downtown gridlock, bike patrols have proven effective in reducing crime and increasing arrests. The ability to access areas that are difficult for cars to reach means that potential offenders have fewer places to hide. Moreover, bike patrols facilitate better interaction with the public, fostering positive relationships and community trust. This enhanced engagement is particularly valuable in a hospital setting, where security personnel can provide reassurance and support to patients, staff, and visitors.

Being based in the Pacific Northwest, Providence Health benefits from the pioneering efforts of the Seattle Police Department. The success of bike patrols in Seattle highlights the potential for similar outcomes in hospital security. The increased visibility and approachability of bike officers contribute to a safer and more welcoming environment. By adopting this innovative approach, Providence Health not only improves its security operations but also sets a positive example for other healthcare institutions to follow. The integration of bike patrols into hospital security demonstrates a commitment to proactive and community-oriented safety measures.

Encouraging Safe Cycling

Providence is in the health business. In a community with a significant cycling population, placing security officers on bikes integrates them into the primary mode of transportation. Trained officers on bikes set a positive example for safe cycling behavior. They enforce cycling laws and ordinances, which increases safety for all roadway and campus facility users. Traffic in and around hospital campuses can be particularly hazardous for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists alike. By riding correctly and enforcing laws that protect cyclists, bike officers contribute to overall traffic safety.

?Enhanced Accessibility and Response Times

Hospital campuses often include pedestrian zones where patrol cars are impractical for all but the most serious calls. Mountain bikes enable trained officers to quickly and easily reach most areas, including tunnels, skyways, and even inside buildings where motor vehicles cannot go. This significantly reduces response times, which is crucial in emergency situations. Additionally, campuses have hidden or out-of-the-way places, such as alleys and trails, that can become havens for troublemakers. Mountain bikes provide easy access to these areas, even if they need to be carried or pushed a short distance, thereby deterring criminal activity.

Versatility in Patrol Methods

Mountain bikes offer versatility in patrol methods. Plainclothes personnel on unmarked or disguised bikes can blend in with the community, allowing them to observe and survey areas for specific crimes or problems. They can carry equipment in backpacks, enabling them to move quickly to make arrests or continue surveillance while summoning uniformed officers. This approach is particularly effective in areas where traditional patrol methods might be too conspicuous or impractical.

Supporting Community Policing

For hospitals embracing the concepts and goals of community policing, bike patrols are one of the most effective tools available. The increased presence and accessibility of bike officers encourage positive interactions with all members of the hospital community. These fosters trust and cooperation, which are essential components of effective community “policing”. Moreover, bike patrols align with the goals of creating a greener environment, as they reduce the reliance on motor vehicles and their associated emissions, which is a growing trend in Oregon, specifically Portland.

Combating Bike Theft

Bike officers are uniquely positioned to address the growing problem of bike theft. Some institutions, such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison, have successfully used GPS-equipped “bait” bikes to target and reduce bicycle thefts. By using bike officers for both surveillance and arrest teams during these initiatives, hospitals can effectively combat bike theft and enhance overall security. This creates a proactive approach and takes a known criminals off the streets.

?Bicycle Response Teams

Finally, in the past decade, security professionals have discovered another effective use for patrol bikes: crowd management at large events such as concerts, festivals, and sports games. Known as Bicycle Response Teams (BRTs), these units have significantly improved the ability to control and manage crowds, preventing troublemakers from moving freely and causing disruptions. Initially deployed at high-profile events, BRT methods have been increasingly adopted by regional security teams and smaller agencies, including campus security departments. A technique adopted from big city police departments

BRTs offer several advantages in the security field. Their mobility allows them to navigate through dense crowds quickly, reaching areas that might be inaccessible to vehicles. This rapid response capability is crucial for maintaining order and addressing incidents promptly. Additionally, the presence of bike patrols acts as a visible deterrent to potential troublemakers, enhancing overall safety and security at events.

The success of BRTs in managing crowds at large events highlights their potential for broader applications in the security field. By adopting these methods, security teams can improve their effectiveness in various settings, from urban centers to college campuses. The integration of bike patrols into security operations demonstrates a commitment to proactive and efficient crowd management, ensuring a safer environment for all attendees.

Future of cycling

The utilization of bikes in the hospital security field offers numerous benefits, from encouraging safe cycling and enhancing accessibility to supporting community policing and combating bike theft. Numerous Northwest health companies has demonstrated the effectiveness of a dedicated bike patrol team in responding to a wide range of calls. By integrating bike patrols into their security strategy, hospitals can create a safer, more efficient, and more community-oriented environment.