10. Foot Formations

Question 1

What are the 6 Objectives of Foot Formations?

Answer 1

To protect the Principal from:
1. Unintentional injury
2. Protection of image and lifestyle
3. Criminal threat
4. Terrorist threat
5. Kidnap threat
6. Aggressive crowds / protestors

Question 2

What does Diamond Formation look like? And when is it best used?

Answer 2

Another formation ideally used in hostile or high risk areas, not as commonly used in the UK and Europe; mainly used by the US.

PPO and P in the middle with 4 PES members at front, both sides, and back, like a diamond

Question 2

What 7 Observations/Considerations must be taken into consideration whilst on foot, in regard to foot formations?

Answer 2

1) Constant vigilance by the PPO & PES
2) Beware of distractions / ‘Come on’
3) Identify Potential danger & guide Principal away from it
4) 360 Degree observation, overlapping
5) Look well ahead
6) Look up as well as at eye level (Near, middle, far, low, medium, and high)
7) Try to anticipate developments

Question 2

What does Box Formation look like? And when is it best used?

Answer 2

Best used in high risk areas where there is a serious threat to the Principal.

PPO and P in the middle with 4 PES members at each corner, like a box

Question 3

What are considerations to take into account in foot formations?

Answer 3

1. Threat level
2. Principal’s attitude towards PES
3. Area and environment of the operation
4. Number of CPOs
5. Gender make-up of PES and Principal’s gender

Question 4

What does Closed V§ Formation look like? And when is it best used?

Answer 4

A very strong formation used for Principal’s protection but not so good for public image. (To remember: the Principal’s view is CLOSED)

PPO and P in the middle with 1 PES member directly in front and 2 PES members standing behind to the sides

Question 4

What does Open V Formation look like? And when is it best used?

Answer 4

Used for its low profile look and the Principal’s ability to have press take photos etc. It also provides good cover from all angles (To remember: open V = that the Principal’s View is OPEN)

PPO and P in the middle with 2 PES members standing in front to the sides and 1 PES member directly behind