The Intersection of Climate Change and Policing
Our world is becoming increasingly more vulnerable. And it is clear that many global challenges are deeply intertwined. Of particular note is the connection between climate change and policing; although at first glance these two issues appear unrelated, closer examination reveals an intricate web of connections which connect them.
As we come to terms with the reality of climate change, it becomes crucial to recognize its ripple effects across society - specifically how these changes impact policing in direct and indirect ways. Here we explore the multi-layered reasons why climate change matters to policing; deconstructing its layers to reveal how environmental shifts influence crime patterns, resource allocation decisions and community safety itself.
Climate change is not solely an environmental concern that affects weather patterns and melting ice caps; rather it pervades nearly every aspect of life, including police operations. Climate change's ripple effects have an immense influence on policing in the form of increasing natural disasters, shifting weather patterns, reduced resource availability, etc.
With increasing frequency and severity of hurricanes, wildfires, and extreme weather events comes increased policing response for disaster response and recovery. Due to strain placed upon resources as a result of climate-related events, police departments will increasingly need to adapt. This requirement reveals the intricate relationship between climate realities and policing’s readiness to fulfill its duty to protect and serve communities. We explore this intricate connection by unpacking how climate change and policing are connected. Understanding this linkage is integral in developing effective policing strategies for the future.
The rapid intensification of hurricanes: knowledge cops don’t know they need
Recent years have been witness to an upsurge in hurricane intensity, drawing great concern from meteorologists, emergency management professionals and public safety leaders alike. However, police agencies that play an essential role in disaster response must also acknowledge and adapt to the uncertainties brought on by rapidly intensifying storms. Hurricanes, often challenging storms to prepare and respond to under the best of circumstances, become even more so when their intensities surge unexpectedly in short spans of time. Understanding its consequences of “rapid intensification” is essential when considering public safety and resource allocation decisions.