Taser, Is it safe? How does it work?

There is a lot of media publicity surrounding the use of Tasers in law enforcement. The Taser has become controversial in many communities. These controversies have left many wondering how does Taser work? How safe is the Taser? Here are some answers from a real cop’s perspective and research. It should be noted the information provided herein is based on training, field experience and Taser International’s website.

Taser is designed to provide non-injurious solutions to violent confrontations by developing a product which enables law enforcement officers to protect themselves while minimizing injury or death. That’s a real mouth full, huh? This is accomplished by allowing the officer to control the suspect without having to hit them with batons, spray them with OC spray or place their hands on them trying to physically control a suspect. This has greatly reduced injuries to police officers and suspects alike. Here are some dramatic statistics from police departments using Taser:
Officers injuries down 80%
Suspects injuries down 67%
Baton strikes down 56%
These statistics mean financial savings to police departments and to the citizens they protect.

Taser weapons are electronic control devices which use a powerful 18 to 26 watt electrical signal to completely override the central nervous system and directly control the skeletal muscles. This effect causes an uncontrollable contraction of the muscle tissue, allowing the current to physically debilitate a target regardless of pain tolerance or mental focus. Tasers are weapons specifically designed to stop even the most elite, aggressive, focused combatants. Rather than simply interfering with communication between the brain and muscles, Tasers directly cause the muscles to contract. The desired effects cause the suspect to be unable to resist.

Tasers put out 50,000 volts. That may sound like a lot but when someone is hurt by electricity it is the amps which cause death or injury (not the volts).

The Tasers can be used two ways on a subject. One way is by using the air cartridge which shoots two high voltage insulated wires with probes on the end. These probes are barbed so as to not come out (like a honey bee’s stinger). The current is delivered through the wires. These air cartridges are replaceable. The wires are between 15 to 21 feet. The second way is to remove the air cartridge and use the Taser by placing it in direct contact with the suspect. This is similar to the “stun guns” commonly seen in movies during the 80’s.

The Taser is an intimidating police tool when an officer uses the built in laser sighting system. Suspects do not like to see the laser dancing around on their chest when the police have them cornered. There is also an inclination not to like being shocked. This also plays into the officer’s advantage.

Overall the Taser is not the end all tool. It can be misused like any other tool, but it is a safe police tool.
The key to understanding the Taser’s place in your community is by contacting your local police departments and asking questions about how they use this tool. Now with this information you can be educated and knowledgeable when someone makes false or uninformed statements about Tasers.