Halifax Regional Police
Emergency Response Team
 Halifax Regional Police Badge

The Halifax Regional Police (HRP) Emergency Response Team (ERT) is a part-time unit that according to their official mission statement " provides specialized weapons and tactical support to control, contain, and safely resolve potentially dangerous situations." The unit is composed of officers from various areas within the department, such as Patrol, General Investigation Services, and the Drug Unit. The ERT is mobilized an average of once per month to help resolve any volatile situations that may develope within its juredsdiction.

ERT Icon Examples of situations where the ERT may be used are:

  • Confirmed firearm and or weapon situations
  • High risk prisoner escort
  • Hostage situations
  • Barricaded persons
  • High risk warrant situations

    Critical Incident Negotiators
    The department states that negotiation is always the preferred method of solving any critical incident. The HRP has seven fully-trained negotiators available on a 24 hr. basis. These officers train every two months and are used in suicide attempts, hostage situations and with barricaded persons. They are trained to work closely with the ERT, and "to provide a non-invasive end to potentially hostile or life-threatening situations."

    ERT Icon Selection Process
    Prospective ERT members are selected through a rigorous screening process which includes the following:

  • A Fitness test
  • A Firearms proficiency test
  • A Written examination
  • A Series medical and psychological tests

    Members of ERT are trained in a wide variety of skills, including:

  • Negotiation and verbal conflict resolution
  • Specialized weaponry
  • Sensory irritant deployment
  • Coordinated team deployment tactics
  • Tactical marksmanship
  • Subject control techniques
  • High risk / known risk vehicle stops

    All photos courtesy of the HRP
    Further Reading
    ERT Page 1
    ERT Page 2

    Image Gallery
    Members of ERT on the Firing Range Members of ERT on the Firing Range Members of ERT on the Firing Range Group Shot

    Members of ERT practicing in a structure Members of ERT practicing in a structure Members of ERT showing some of their gear