Open Door Entry: Non-destructive Entry Training
The value of NDE-certified operators:
Increased Community Relations
When an elderly person falls at home and calls 911, responders often resort to destructive entry, even if the individual is stable. While this may address the immediate emergency, it can leave the home damaged—such as a broken door—while the person is in the hospital. This unnecessary property damage can erode trust and negatively impact community relations. By training responders in non-destructive entry (NDE) techniques, ODE-certified operators help minimize property damage, fostering stronger, more positive relationships between first responders and the communities they serve.
Increased In-Service Time
Waiting for a locksmith or keyholder to arrive at a locked, empty structure wastes valuable resources, particularly when multiple officers are involved. Trained, experienced NDE operators can often gain access in minutes—or even seconds—minimizing downtime and improving both efficiency and response times. The cost savings from reduced in-service hours, even after just one successful NDE implementation, can often offset the expense of certification.
Decreased Injury Claims
When destructive entry is authorized but NDE is a viable alternative, pairing NDE with covert entry methods can significantly reduce the risk of operator injuries. While it is difficult to quantify the absence of injuries, preventing even a single claim can protect the agency from unnecessary costs and resource depletion.
“The only effective way to train operators for field-use skills, must include strategies for overcoming failures & adapting to real-world challenges.”
-Pat Watson