NCJ Number
86620
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 30 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1982) Pages: 16-18,21-23,66-67,27-28,31
Date Published
1982
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Several articles discuss the use of automobiles in police work in terms of fuel conservation, police fleet considerations, and appropriate vehicle purchases.
Abstract
Although fuel prices are now decreasing, many police departments feel that energy conservation remains an important consideration and a major element of cost-effective management. The avenues available to save both fuel and money are numerous. These include accountability within the police fleet, alternative patrol techniques, add-on fuel saving devices, and driver training programs for fuel conservation. In addition, vehicles must be purchased at the lowest possible price, and fleet maintenance programs should be implemented to ensure that all fleet vehicles are in peak operating condition. Fuel efficiency can also be improved if fleet drivers develop proper driving habits such as observing the speed limit, anticipating stops, accelerating gradually, avoiding the use of air conditioning, turning off the engine whenever the car is stopped, and keeping the windows closed at high speed. It should be remembered that need for high speed capability in emergency situations is limited and of questionable value in most cases. It is well documented that approximately 90 percent of all police calls for service do not require or justify a response that exceeds the posted speed limit. The Michigan Department of State Police has improved cost efficiency with regard to its fleet through a cooperative arrangement with car manufacturers. The impetus for testing cars with smaller engines came from the manufacturers so they could supply the information to other agencies. Such trial testing is now performed by a number of other police organizations, including the California Highway Patrol. The articles include several photographs and illustrations of a vehicle operating cost accounting system.