400-05 Firearms Qualification, Training, and Control

Question 1

Academy Firearms Range.

Answer 1

The firearms training facilities located in the Houston Police Academy firearms complex and supervised by Houston Police Department Academy range personnel.

Question 2

Academy Range Personnel.

Answer 2

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) certified firearms instructors assigned to an Academy firearms range or certified firearms instructors for the department’s Tactical Training Unit, Narcotics Training Unit, or Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Detail (designated SWAT officers only). These officers have the authority to remove anyone from an Academy firearms range for unsafe practices.

Question 3

Attempt to Qualify.

Answer 3

When an officer during an official qualifying line scored by Academy range personnel snoots and attempts to pass the appropriate firearms qualification course with a firearm the officer intends to carry.

Question 4

Back-up Weapon.

Answer 4

A firearm that is carried in conjunction with a primary weapon.

Question 5

Off-duty Weapon.

Answer 5

A handgun registered in the department’s firearms registration database and that may be carried in an off-duty capacity once guidelines set forth in this General Order are met. An off-duty weapon may also be carried as a back-up weapon when all criteria and qualifications have been met.

Question 6

Plainclothes.

Answer 6

For the purpose of this General Order only, plainclothes refers to all manner of dress other than approved department uniforms.

Question 7

Primary Weapon.

Answer 7

A handgun that meets the guidelines set forth in this General Order, that is registered in the department’s firearms registration database as a primary weapon, and that may be carried alone.

Question 8

Qualification.

Answer 8

When an officer during an official qualifying line scored by Academy range personnel shoots and passes the appropriate firearms qualification course with a firearm the officer intends to carry.

Question 9

Qualification Quarter.

Answer 9

The quarter of the year dedicated to department wide primary weapons qualification.

Question 10

Redress Firearms Training.

Answer 10

Individualized training sessions scheduled by the Training Division for officers who have failed all three attempts during the qualification quarter.

Question 11

Shoulder Fired Weapon.

Answer 11

A shotgun or carbine that meets the guidelines set forth in this General Order, that is registered in the department’s firearms registration database, and that may be
carried only with a primary weapon if the officer is in police uniform, on duty, or working police related extra employment.

Question 12

Specialized.

Answer 12

Only divisions, units, weapons, and ammunition so designated in writing by the
Chief of Police shall be considered specialized. Only officers assigned full or part time to a specialized division or unit and while carrying out those assignments, duties, and functions are allowed to carry specialized weapons and ammunition.

Question 13

Under the Influence of Alcohol.

Answer 13

Any measurable concentration of alcohol in a person’s blood, breath, or urine.

Question 14

All approved weapons used by officers in the performance of their official duties shall not be altered from the manufacturer specifications nor changed in any way that…

Answer 14

affects the safety or function of the weapons

Question 15

All primary, back-up, and off-duty weapons shall be professional and conservative in appearance and shall be, except as noted herein, of a _____ finish.

Officers shall not adorn their firearms with any symbol or design other than the standard manufacturer emblem, or with any equipment or additions not listed in this General Order.

Answer 15

blued, black, or silver

Question 16

A description including the make, model, and serial number of all firearms carried by each officer shall be listed in the Houston Police Department’s…

Officer’s firearms shall be maintained in good working order and are expected to be cleaned and lubricated on a regular basis.

Answer 16

firearms registration database maintained by the Training Division.

Question 17

PRIMARY WEAPONS

Except as noted in this General Order, officers shall carry a primary weapon for which they hold current qualification while in police uniform, on duty, or working police-related extra employment.

Regardless of assignment or exceptions outlined in this section, all officers shall qualify annually with an approved primary weapon on the department’s primary weapons course as outlined in this General Order and as dictated by ____

Answer 17

Academy range personnel.

Question 18

PRIMARY WEAPONS

Uniformed Officers

Only the weapons listed for uniformed officers, based on the officer’s _____, in Attachments A and Bare approved primary weapons for officers while in uniform.

Answer 18

Academy class

Question 19

PRIMARY WEAPONS

Plainclothes Officers

Plainclothes officers shall carry a weapon included in Attachments A or B in the primary weapons lists for uniformed officers, based on the officer’s Academy class, or a weapon included in Attachment C in the primary weapons list for plainclothes officers.

Plainclothes officers are authorized to “open carry” their primary weapon while on duty and in public view. Plainclothes officers shall adhere to all of the below requirements if choosing to “open carry.”

a.
Officers shall display the _____ on the officer’s belt or waistband next to the weapon.

b.
Officers shall display the official _____.

c.
Officers shall carry a pair of handcuffs, and at least one…

Answer 19

a.
Officers shall display the HPD badge on the officer’s belt or waistband next to the weapon.

b.
Officers shall display the official HPD identification.

c.
Officers shall carry a pair of handcuffs, and at least one additional loaded magazine for a semiautomatic handgun or an additional loaded speed loader for a revolver.

Question 20

PRIMARY WEAPONS

Plainclothes Officers

An exception to the above requirements is when an officer is at an assigned office or police facility and the officer is….

The above Open Carry policy does not apply to officers working in an undercover or off-duty capacity.

Answer 20

not conducting business with a citizen or suspect

Question 21

PRIMARY WEAPONS

Undercover Officers

Officers working in an undercover capacity shall carry a weapon included in Attachments A or B in the primary weapons lists for uniformed officers, based on the officer’s Academy class, or the weapons included in Attachment C for plainclothes officers.

Exceptions to the above paragraph are dependent upon the nature of the officer’s assignment and the types of operations in which the officer is involved.

With the exception of rifles and fully automatic weapons, a division commander may authorize an officer working in an undercover capacity to carry as a primary weapon any firearm that…

Answer 21

will enable the safe completion of operations.

Question 22

PRIMARY WEAPONS

Undercover Officers

If an undercover officer is authorized to carry a weapon described in section 3, Off-Duty Weapons, as a primary weapon, the officer shall have completed the _____ training class taught by the Narcotics Training Unit or the _____training class taught by the Tactical Training Unit, and successfully met the qualification requirements of that class annually.

Answer 22

1) “Undercover Carry”

2) “Tactical Plainclothes Weapons”

Question 23

PRIMARY WEAPONS

Undercover Officers

If an officer is authorized to carry a weapon described in section 4, Back-Up Weapons, as a primary weapon during a particular operation, the officer shall hold current qualification with the weapon on the department’s…

If a division commander approves a weapon that does not meet any of the above criteria, the officer shall hold current qualification with the weapon on the department’s back-up/off-duty weapon course prior to the operation.

If a particular operation makes it impractical for an officer to carry a firearm, the _____ may authorize the involved officer to not carry a firearm for the duration of the assignment.

Answer 23

1) back-up/off-duty weapon course prior to the operation.

2) division commander

Question 24

OFF-DUTY WEAPONS

Officers are reminded that even if they elect not to carry a firearm while off duty, they are considered to be a Houston police officer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Officers shall remain responsible for complying with all department policies and procedures, and are still required to take appropriate action when required. If unarmed, appropriate action may include…

Answer 24

contacting 9-1-1 or the police dispatcher about a crime in progress rather than attempting to make an arrest.

Question 25

OFF-DUTY WEAPONS

Off-duty officers working police-related extra employment or wearing a police uniform are required to carry a primary weapon in accordance with all applicable provisions of this General Order.

If an off-duty officer not wearing a police uniform and not working police-related extra employment elects to carry a handgun, the officer shall carry a primary weapon or an off-duty weapon that matches one of the following descriptions:

a. Revolvers.
Revolvers must be double action and chambered for _____ . Revolvers must have a barrel length of…

b. Semiautomatic pistols.
Semiautomatic pistols must be chambered for _____ and have a barrel length of _____.

Answer 25

1) .38 special / 9mm or larger cartridges
2) at least two inches, but not more than four inches
3) .380 caliber cartridges or larger
4) at least two inches

Question 26

OFF-DUTY WEAPONS

Handguns carried off duty must hold a minimum of ____rounds of ammunition.

Answer 26

five

Question 27

OFF-DUTY WEAPONS

Officers shall ensure that any off-duty weapon they intend to carry is…

Officers do not need to qualify with off-duty weapons, unless…

Off-duty weapons are to be carried in a concealed and inconspicuous manner.

_______ of an off-duty weapon is prohibited regardless of whether the officer has obtained a license to carry a handgun issued by the state of Texas or other state with a reciprocity agreement.

Answer 27

1) registered in the department’s firearms registration database.
2) the weapon is of a different type than their primary weapon. (e.g., primary weapon is a semiautomatic and the off-duty weapon is a revolver).
3) Open carry

Question 28

BACK-UP WEAPONS

While in police uniform, on duty, or working police-related extra employment, officers are not allowed to carry a back-up weapon…

While off duty and not wearing a police uniform and not working police-related extra employment, officers are not allowed to carry a back-up handgun…

Except as noted elsewhere in this General Order, the department approved back-up weapons described in the following subsections are the only firearms officers may carry in addition to their primary weapon.

Answer 28

1) alone without an approved primary weapon.

2) alone without an approved primary or off-duty weapon.

Question 29

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Handguns

Back-up handguns must be…

If an officer’s back-up handgun is a revolver it must be_____.

Back-up handguns must hold at least ____rounds of ammunition.

Officers shall qualify _____with these weapons during the qualification quarter on the department’s back-up/off-duty weapon course.

Back-up handguns shall be carried in a concealed and inconspicuous manner.

Answer 29

1) .22 caliber or larger (.25 caliber is prohibited) and have a barrel length of two to four inches.
2) double action
3) five
4) annually

Question 30

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Shotguns

Only those shotguns listed in Attachment D of this General Order have been approved by the department.

Officers who _______may carry a shotgun as a back-up weapon while in uniform, on duty, or working police-related extra employment.

Officers shall qualify _____on the department’s shotgun qualification course during the qualification quarter.

Academy range personnel shall inspect shotguns at the time of qualification for compliance and un-authorized modifications.

_______ shall be used for deployment with approved shotguns.

Answer 30

1) successfully complete the department’s appropriate shotgun qualification and training courses
2) annually
3) “00” buckshot

Question 31

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Shotguns

Officers who desire to carry shotguns not currently approved by the department shall submit their requests in writing to the Chief of Police for approval. Each shotgun submitted to the Chief of Police for potential approval must meet the requirements listed below:

a. ___gauge
b. Pump or _____
c. _____ bars (applicable to pump action shotguns)
d. ______ safety
e. Barrel length of _____ inches
f. Tube fed _____
g. _____ finish
h. _____ sights
i. Loading and ejection through _____

Answer 31

a. 12 gauge
b. Pump or semiautomatic
c. Dual action bars (applicable to pump action shotguns)
d. Cross-bolt safety
e. Barrel length of 18 to 20 inches
f. Tube fed magazine
g. Black, blued, or silver finish
h. Bead or iron sights
i. Loading and ejection through two different ports

Question 32

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Shotguns

Shotguns may have _____ stocks.

Pistol-grip only shotguns are not approved.

Officers shall transport shotguns in the _____ or in a _____ in the front compartment of the patrol vehicle provided the officer has completed the requisite training.

Shotguns shall be stored with…

Answer 32

1) folding or retractable
2) trunk or cargo area of the vehicle inside a case
3) department approved and installed rifle rack
4) a loaded magazine tube, the safety engaged, the action closed, and the chamber empty

Question 33

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

Officers of any rank from any division who successfully complete all portions of the requisite carbine rifle training may carry approved carbines as a back-up weapon while in uniform, on duty, or working police-related extra employment.

Once trained, officers shall qualify _____on the department’s carbine qualification course, either during the qualification quarter or their birth month.

Answer 33

annually

Question 34

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

Only the carbines listed in Attachment 0 are approved for qualification and deployment.

The AR 15 style carbine with a barrel length of ____ inches and an overall length of more than ___inches is an approved carbine.

AR-15 style, short barrel rifle (SBR) carbines with a minimum barrel length of ____inches are also approved carbines provided the officer completes the appropriate federal paperwork, registers the carbine with the Training Division, and per federal law…

Approved carbines may have retractable or folding stocks.

Answer 34

1) 16 to 20
2) 26
3) 10
4) keeps a copy of the federal proof of registration and tax stamp in his possession at all times while possessing the SBR carbine.

Question 35

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

Approved carbines shall be black in color.

The only exception is a monochromatic olive drab color carbine, provided the officer qualified with it prior to January 23, 2017, and the carbine has remained continuously registered with the department to that officer since before January 23,
2017.

_____ carbines are prohibited.

Answer 35

Multicolor or camouflage

Question 36

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

Approved carbines must have iron sights and a weapon mounted light. The carbine may, in addition, have electronic optical sights as listed in Attachment 0.

Approved electronic optical sights must have no _____and shall be mounted either with a quick release return to zero mount or in a manner that allows…

Answer 36

1) magnification

2) the immediate use of the back-up iron sights if the electronic optic fails for any reason

Question 37

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

An additional approved ___magnifier, as listed in Attachment 0, may be used in conjunction with the electronic optical sight provided that the magnifier utilizes a flip to side mount and does not interfere with the back-up iron or electronic optical sight.

Officers shall _____ prior to mounting the magnifier on their rifle.

Answer 37

1) 3X

2) take the magnifier course

Question 38

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

Only _____ammunition shall be used for deployment with an approved carbine.

No officer shall carry a rifle or a carbine of a type or configuration different than that specified in this subsection unless specifically authorized in writing by the Chief of Police.

Suppressors are not approved for use on carbines without written permission from the Chief of Police.

Officers shall transport carbines in the trunk or cargo area of the vehicle inside a case or in a…

Carbines shall be stored with…

Answer 38

1) .223 caliber, 55-grain soft point
2) department approved and installed rifle rack in the front compartment of the patrol vehicle.
3) a magazine seated in the magazine well, the safety engaged, and the chamber empty

Question 39

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

Officers may respond and deploy with an approved carbine in any high-risk situation in which a suspect:

a.
Possesses a _____.

b.
Possesses or uses _____.

c.
Employs measures that…

Officers may also respond with a carbine at any special threat situation as long as the requirements in General Order 600-05, Special Threat Situations, are also satisfied.

Answer 39

1) rifle, assault rifle, machine gun, or shotgun
2) body armor
3) put any officer at a tactical disadvantage that cannot be overcome with a handgun.

Question 40

BACK-UP WEAPONS

Carbines

Officers shall not volunteer or participate in the execution of preplanned high-risk warrants with their carbines in lieu of contacting the…

At the end of a high-risk situation in which a carbine was deployed, officers shall immediately…

No officer shall carry a fully automatic weapon unless the Chief of Police has authorized its use as…

Answer 40

1) Tactical Operations Division, SWAT Detail.
2) render the carbine safe and place it back in the trunk or cargo area of the patrol vehicle or in the rifle rack
3) part of a job assignment

Question 41

SPECIALIZED WEAPONS

Specialized divisions and units may need to utilize weapons that do not meet the approved weapon criteria outlined in this General Order.

Weapons such as rifles, fully automatic weapons, and carbines not otherwise approved may be designated as _____ by the Chief of Police in writing.

Specialized weapons may not be utilized in any manner inconsistent with this General Order or other department policies without written approval by the Chief of Police.

Officers in specialized units may carry any weapon or ammunition in any configuration that meets their needs as long as the configuration is approved in writing by the Chief of Police.

Once a specialized weapon is approved in writing by the Chief of Police, the _____ shall be responsible for that weapon’s use, control, and inventory.

Answer 41

1) specialized weapons

2) division commander

Question 42

AMMUNITION

Except with approval by the Chief of Police, no officer shall carry any of the following types of ammunition.

a.
_____ piercing

b.
____ ammunition

c.
_____ slug

d.
____ shot

e.
_____ ammunition

f.
_____ ammunition

g.
______ (hand-loaded) ammunition

Answer 42

a.
Armor piercing

b.
Tracer ammunition

c.
Glaser safety slug

d.
Rat shot

e.
Frangible ammunition

f.
Incendiary ammunition

g.
Non-factory-loaded (hand-loaded) ammunition

Question 43

GRIPS

All weapons carried while an officer is in uniform, on duty, or working police-related extra employment shall have _____ grips made of _____.

Grips shall not be adorned with emblems or designs other than the _____

Answer 43

1) black or brown
2) wood, plastic, metal, or rubber
3) standard manufacturer logo.

Question 44

HOLSTERS

Approved uniform holsters are listed in Attachment D of this General Order. The following procedures regarding uniform holsters shall be followed.

a.
Holsters shall not be…

Answer 44

modified in any way

Question 45

HOLSTERS

Approved uniform holsters are listed in Attachment D of this General Order. The following procedures regarding uniform holsters shall be followed.

b.
Each holster is to be used for only the _____ for which it was made.

Answer 45

particular weapon or configuration

Question 46

HOLSTERS

Approved uniform holsters are listed in Attachment D of this General Order. The following procedures regarding uniform holsters shall be followed.

c.
Officers shall bring their “Sam Browne” and uniform holsters when reporting to qualify with their primary weapon for uniformed officers during the qualification quarter.

Academy range personnel shall inspect the holsters to ensure they are in good working order and are…

Answer 46

appropriate for the type and configuration of weapons the officers are carrying.

Question 47

HOLSTERS

Approved uniform holsters are listed in Attachment D of this General Order. The following procedures regarding uniform holsters shall be followed.

d.
Officers shall contact Uniform Supply before acquiring a new primary weapon to determine if…

1. If an approved holster is available, officers shall go to Uniform Supply and pick up the appropriate holster. Before the holster can be worn on duty, officers shall report to an Academy firearms range and qualify with the new primary weapon and holster on the primary weapons course. The qualification score shall be entered into the department’s weapons qualification database. Officers shall return the old holster to Uniform Supply within two business days. If an officer does not qualify within ____ days after picking up the new holster, the
   officer shall contact Uniform Supply to make arrangements to return the new holster.
2. If an approved holster is not available, officers shall be responsible for…

Answer 47

1) an approved holster is available through the City’s current holster vendor.
2) 14 calendar
3) purchasing an appropriate holster and having it approved by Academy range personnel before qualifying or using it on duty.

Question 48

HOLSTERS

Approved uniform holsters are listed in Attachment D of this General Order. The following procedures regarding uniform holsters shall be followed.

e.
Officers requiring replacement of a damaged holster for their existing weapon shall contact _____ to determine availability and replacement requirements.

Answer 48

Uniform Supply

Question 49

HOLSTERS

Approved uniform holsters are listed in Attachment D of this General Order. The following procedures regarding uniform holsters shall be followed.

f.
Officers may, at their own expense, purchase and wear custom made holsters provided the holsters meet all criteria and specifications set forth for the official City-issued holsters or approved alternatives and are approved by the_____

Prior to wearing any alternative holster, officers shall demonstrate proficiency with the holster to _____.

Any rejected holster may be submitted with justification for the alternative or modification to the Chief of Police who may direct the department’s Office of Planning & Data Governance to evaluate the holster.

Following this evaluation, the Chief of Police shall determine whether the holster may be used.

Answer 49

1) Firearms Training lieutenant.

2) Academy range personnel

Question 50

HOLSTERS

Approved uniform holsters are listed in Attachment D of this General Order. The following procedures regarding uniform holsters shall be followed.

g.
Officers shall _____ when transitioning to a different approved holster before using it on duty.

Answer 50

demonstrate proficiency

Question 51

HOLSTERS

No holster requiring _____ is authorized for use by officers at any time.

This prohibition will be for all on-duty and off-duty carry.

In addition, no such holsters may be used by HPD personnel, officers from other law enforcement agencies, or retirees while qualifying or attending training at HPD firearms ranges.

Answer 51

the trigger (index) finger to be used to defeat a retention mechanism

Question 52

SIGHTS

Firearms shall not be altered to accommodate laser sights; nor shall officers carry firearms with laser sights. However, specialized units may use laser sights if…

Answer 52

approved in writing by the Chief of Police

Question 53

SIGHTS

Red Dot Sights (RDS)

Officers are approved to carry a Red Dot Sight on their primary or off-duty weapon if the following requirements are met:

a.
The officer completed an ______ and qualified with their weapon using the RDS.

b. 
\_\_\_\_for the RDS class has been entered into the department's firearms registration database.

c.
Weapons mounted with a RDS are registered in the department’s _____

d.
The weapon has a factory slide cutout mount for the RDS or an aftermarket milled slide supplied by a _____

e.
The weapon has _____ that can be viewed through the optic in the event the red dot sight fails.

Officers shall present proof of purchase from an authorized manufacturer or vendor when registering the aftermarket milled slide.

Answer 53

a.
The officer completed an 8-hour training course and qualified with their weapon using the RDS.

b. 
Credit for the RDS class has been entered into the department's firearms registration database.

c.
Weapons mounted with a RDS are registered in the department’s firearms registration database.

d.
The weapon has a factory slide cutout mount for the RDS or an aftermarket milled slide supplied by a department authorized manufacturer or vendor.

e.
The weapon has iron sights that can be viewed through the optic in the event the red dot sight fails.

Question 54

WEAPON-MOUNTED LIGHTS

Officers who wish to use weapon-mounted lights shall first complete the…

Officers are responsible for purchasing an appropriate weapon-mounted light and holster according to the specifications listed in Attachment E of this General Order.

Answer 54

low light/weapon-mounted light qualification course.

Question 55

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

The annual primary weapons qualification shall be conducted _____

Commanders shall give priority to officers needing time off in order to satisfy the department’s qualification requirements.

Answer 55

on duty.

Question 56

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Officers shall qualify with their primary or back-up weapons (including off-duty weapons used as back-up weapons) they intend to carry on duty. Failure to qualify with such weapon shall result in…

Answer 56

that weapon not being eligible for use as an on-duty or off-duty weapon.

Question 57

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Officers shall maintain current qualification with all firearms they intend to carry per the guidelines in this General Order.

All firearms for which officers hold current qualification shall be listed in the…

Answer 57

department’s firearms registration database

Question 58

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Officers that have multiple primary weapons registered in department’s database shall qualify with…

Officers will be required to notify Academy range personnel which weapons they still own each year in the qualification quarter to keep their registered weapons list up to date.

Answer 58

only the primary weapon they intend to carry on duty

Question 59

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

All officers shall hold current qualification with an approved primary weapon prior to…

Qualification with a primary weapon shall be on the primary weapons course at an Academy firearms range.

Qualification with other firearms shall also be performed at an Academy firearms range.

Regardless of which Academy firearms range an officer uses, the officer shall comply with that facility’s policies.

Answer 59

qualification with any other weapon

Question 60

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

“_____” firearms, such as the Sig Sauer P320, enable the user to change the frame size, barrel length, and caliber of the firearm while still retaining the same serial number.

Officers are authorized to carry a modular firearm, on or off duty, only in the configuration in which the officer has _____ and as authorized in the Attachments.

If an officer changes the frame size, barrel length (e.g., from full size to compact), or caliber, the officer must qualify with the firearm in the additional configuration in order to receive authorization to carry it in the additional configuration.

Answer 60

1) Modular

2) qualified

Question 61

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

If not previously qualified, an officer desiring to qualify with and carry a model 1911 or 2011 pistol must attend the required 1911 pistol course.

Officers from Academy class ____or later, are not authorized to carry a model 1911/2011 as a primary weapon.

Answer 61

231

Question 62

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Firearms Range Safety and Conduct

Upon arrival at an Academy firearms range, officers, while wearing their Sam Browne, shall render all firearms safe by…

This shall be done before going into any Academy firearms range building.

Semiautomatic handguns shall have the magazine out and the slide locked back
and shall be placed in the holster.

Revolvers shall have the cylinder open and be carried with the fingers through the top strap.

Shotguns shall have the forearm to the rear with the action open and the safety engaged (safety on).

Carbines shall have the magazine out, the bolt locked to the rear, and the safety engaged (safety on).

Answer 62

going to the red clearing barrel and unloading their firearms and ensuring the firearms are empty

Question 63

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Firearms Range Safety and Conduct

Officers shall bring their body armor with them to the Academy firearms range if they intend to train, practice, and/or qualify.

Officers shall put on their body armor prior to entry to the range line shooting area and during all firing events.

If, upon arrival at the firearms range, an officer does not have body armor, then the officer shall…

If a loaner vest is not available, then the officer shall not enter the range line shooting area.

Loaner vests shall be returned at the end of the shooting event.

Answer 63

checkout a loaner vest

Question 64

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Firearms Range Safety and Conduct

Upon leaving the Academy firearms range, officers reloading firearms may do so only at the red clearing barrel.

However, if shooting at the indoor range, officers may reload the weapons…

Answer 64

in a shooting booth with the weapon pointed down range under the direction and approval of a firearms instructor.

Question 65

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Firearms Range Safety and Conduct

Unsafe acts will not be tolerated at an Academy firearms range. Officers may be dismissed from the firearms range by Academy range personnel for _____ for any unsafe act.

Answer 65

the entire day

Question 66

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Firearms Range Safety and Conduct

Proper dress code per General Order 300 06, Training - Classified, shall be enforced (e.g., no sleeveless shirts, and no flip-flop shoes, sandals, or open-toe shoes). Uniform shorts are allowed on the range.

Officers attempting to qualify, practice, or attend firearms related training shall bring
a…

Answer 66

department approved duty gun belt, duty holster, and reloading devices.

Question 67

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Firearms Range Safety and Conduct

Cellular telephone use is prohibited while at Academy firearms range locations. Specifically, there shall be no cellular telephone use while inside the fenced area at the outdoor range, inside the SWAT range and the tactical range, or inside the qualification line at the indoor range.

Use of cellular telephones in the above listed locations shall subject the user to…

Answer 67

being removed from the firearms range

Question 68

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Ammunition

The department shall provide up to ___rounds of ammunition to each officer for use in qualifying with the officer’s primary weapon.

Answer 68

150

Question 69

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Passing Score

To pass the primary weapons qualification examination, a range score of at least ____percent is required.

Scoring will be “Pass/Fail” (i.e., no numerical score or proficiency level will be given).

With exception of the _____ medal, no shooting medals shall be worn on the HPD uniform.

Classified employees who earned a DE medal may continue to wear that medal
on the Class “A” Uniform throughout the remainder of their career.

Answer 69

1) 76

2) Distinguished Expert (DE)

Question 70

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Qualification Documents

All qualification scores shall be entered into the department’s firearms registration database after the officer’s qualification. A printed copy of the qualification line shall be maintained by _____.

Answer 70

Academy range personnel

Question 71

QUALIFICATION WITH FIREARMS

Specialized Divisions and Units

A division or unit that is authorized to use specialized weapons and the support gear necessary for proper operation of the specialized weapons, shall train, qualify, and maintain records of the officers in the unit who are authorized to use specialized weapons while acting in the capacity of a police officer.

The specialized division or unit may also administer the department’s other firearms qualification courses to…

Answer 71

officers assigned to the division or unit

Question 72

FAILED ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY

Except as otherwise noted in this General Order, all handguns and shoulder fired weapons for which officers do not hold a current qualification shall not be carried by officers until…

Answer 72

they have qualified with those weapons.

Question 73

FAILED ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY

Failing Primary Weapon Qualification

Any officer who attempts but fails to qualify with an approved primary weapon on the primary weapons course by the last day of the qualification quarter or who experiences _____failed attempts to qualify with a primary weapon shall notify their division commander in writing by _____.

In the event the officer fails their first attempt, the officer will have _____ days from the date of their first attempt to pass the qualification course.

Answer 73

1) three
2) the next workday
3) 30 calendar

Question 74

FAILED ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY

Failing Primary Weapon Qualification

Any officer who attempts but fails to qualify with an approved primary weapon on the primary weapons course by the last day of the qualification quarter shall not _____ until that officer meets the qualification standards with an approved primary weapon.

Answer 74

work an assignment that requires the officer to be armed and shall not work police-related extra employment

Question 75

FAILED ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY

Failing Primary Weapon Qualification

Any officer who fails to qualify after three attempts with an approved primary weapon on the primary weapons course during the qualification quarter shall be required to schedule and attend…

Officers who then fail to shoot a passing score of 76 percent or higher shall be required to schedule and attend…

The four-hour and sixteen-hour redress firearms training shall be conducted on duty.

The Chief of Police shall be notified in writing to determine the appropriate action to be taken when an officer fails to shoot a passing score of 76 percent or higher after receiving sixteen hours of redress firearms training.

Answer 75

1) four hours of redress firearms training with qualification range instructors within seven calendar days.
2) sixteen hours of redress firearms training with indoor firearms range instructors.

Question 76

FAILED ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY

Supervisors’ Responsibilities

Upon receiving written notification of an officer’s failure to qualify as described above, it is the immediate supervisor’s responsibility to…

For officers whose primary weapon qualification has expired, corrective measures shall include assigning the officer to duties that do not require the officer to be armed and ensuring the officer does not…

This includes suspending the officer’s police-related extra employment.

If necessary, and dependent upon the nature of the officer’s assignment, the supervisor shall _____the officer to ensure safe and appropriate execution of duty.

The Chief of Police shall determine any other corrective action.

Answer 76

1) ensure that corrective measures are taken until the officer is able to qualify with an approved primary weapon.
2) carry a firearm until qualification standards have been met.
3) reassign

Question 77

NO ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY OR A TT END QUARTERLY TRAINING

All records relating to officers not attempting to qualify with a primary weapon are to be maintained by the _____.

Except as noted below, officers who make no attempt to qualify during the qualification quarter with an approved primary weapon shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Such action may include involuntary reassignment, relief from duty, or dismissal from service.

Officers who make no attempt to qualify during the qualification quarter with an approved primary weapon shall not be assigned to duty that _____ and shall not be allowed to work police-related extra employment until qualification requirements are met.

Answer 77

1) officers’ division commander

2) requires them to be armed

Question 78

NO ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY OR A TT END QUARTERLY TRAINING

Legitimate Reason

Officers who have a legitimate reason for not attempting to qualify with an approved primary weapon during the qualification quarter or attending quarterly training shall not be subject to disciplinary action, but shall…

Some examples of legitimate reasons include, but are not limited to, authorized absences, documented illnesses or injury, pregnancy, and special assignments.

Answer 78

notify their division commander.

Question 79

NO ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY OR A TT END QUARTERLY TRAINING

Legitimate Reason

Officers who are physically unable to qualify shall provide sufficient, acceptable documentation to their _____.

An officer who has been declared physically unable to qualify shall not be _____ and shall not be allowed to work police-related extra employment until the officer has met the qualification standards with an approved primary weapon.

Answer 79

1) division commander

2) assigned to any duty requiring the officer to be armed

Question 80

NO ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY OR ATTEND QUARTERLY TRAINING

Legitimate Reason

Officers shall attempt to qualify as soon as possible after returning to a normal duty assignment.

Officers shall be given _____ days to qualify after returning to normal duty.

Unless an exigent circumstance exists, an officer ______ shall not be granted the extension.

Answer 80

1) 30 calendar

2) on normal duty at least one day during the qualification quarter

Question 81

NO ATTEMPT TO QUALIFY OR ATTEND QUARTERLY TRAINING

Legitimate Reason

Officers granted a qualification extension shall not be assigned to duty that requires _____ and shall not be allowed to work police-related extra employment until qualification requirements are met.

_____ shall inform the Training Division via email at TrngQualiRange@HoustonPolice.org of an officer’s legitimate reason for not attempting to qualify or attend quarterly training.

Division commanders or above who have a legitimate reason for not attempting to qualify during the qualification quarter shall notify their immediate supervisors.

Answer 81

1) them to be armed

2) Division commanders

Question 82

LOAN AND FIREARM REPLACEMENT

Any officer who temporarily does not have a primary weapon to carry on duty may request the loan of a replacement primary weapon if one of the following circumstances exists:

a.
The officer’s primary weapon has been rendered temporarily inoperable and is _____.

b.
The officer’s primary weapon has been _____and properly reported as required by HPD.

c.
The department has retained the officer’s primary weapon as part of an _____and the weapon has not been returned.

Answer 82

a.
The officer’s primary weapon has been rendered temporarily inoperable and is being repaired or replaced.

b.
The officer’s primary weapon has been stolen and properly reported as required by HPD.

c.
The department has retained the officer’s primary weapon as part of an investigation and the weapon has not been returned.

Question 83

LOAN AND FIREARM REPLACEMENT

The loan of a primary weapon, while waiting for a replacement weapon or for the original primary weapon to be returned, shall not exceed _____ days without additional written justification from the officer’s division commander.

Prior to carrying any loaned or replacement weapon, officers shall…

Answer 83

1) 30 calendar

2) first qualify with the weapon on the appropriate qualification course.

Question 84

QUALIFICATION FOR RETIRED OFFICERS

Chapter 411 of the Texas Statutes, Government Code and Chapter 1701 of the Texas Statutes, Occupations Code govern the firearms qualification for honorably retired peace officers holding a license to carry handguns in the state of Texas.
The following guidelines shall be followed for all honorably retired HPD officers who have submitted a sworn statement from the Chief of Police as required in order to comply with Section 411.199(b) of the Texas Statutes, Government Code.

a.
Proficiency testing shall be required annually and shall be conducted at an Academy firearms range. Qualifying scores may also be accepted from any municipal police department with a firearms range approved by ____or from any law enforcement firearms range associated with a _____.

b.
Testing shall be consistent with the requirements, procedures, and qualification course designated for retirees by the _____ Division.

c.
Proficiency testing at an Academy firearms range shall be provided as available at no cost to any person honorably retired from HPD as a law enforcement officer and who _____.

d.
A certificate documenting firearm proficiency shall be provided to honorably retired HPD officers so they may report the successful demonstration of proficiency to the _____.

Retired officers wanting certification under the federal Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) to carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction in the United States or United States Territories shall see General Order 400-06, Carrying Concealed Firearms.

Answer 84

a.
Proficiency testing shall be required annually and shall be conducted at an Academy firearms range. Qualifying scores may also be accepted from any municipal police department with a firearms range approved by TCOLE or from any law enforcement firearms range associated with a Texas county sheriff’s department.

b.
Testing shall be consistent with the requirements, procedures, and qualification course designated for retirees by the Training Division.

c.
Proficiency testing at an Academy firearms range shall be provided as available at no cost to any person honorably retired from HPD as a law enforcement officer and who currently resides in the state of Texas.

d.
A certificate documenting firearm proficiency shall be provided to honorably retired HPD officers so they may report the successful demonstration of proficiency to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Question 85

LIMITATIONS

Limitations apply to officers carrying firearms in the following areas and circumstances.

a. Courts.
While attending court, officers shall…

Answer 85

adhere to that court’s policy regarding the carrying of firearms and shall surrender their firearms if a bailiff so requests.

Question 86

LIMITATIONS

Limitations apply to officers carrying firearms in the following areas and circumstances.

b. Psychiatric Wards.
Armed officers shall not enter any facility’s psychiatric ward except _____, and then only after having received approval from the…

Answer 86

1) under the most serious of circumstances

2) physician in charge of the unit, or in the absence of the physician in charge, any on-duty physician in the unit

Question 87

LIMITATIONS

Limitations apply to officers carrying firearms in the following areas and circumstances.

c. Under the Influence of Alcohol.

City Ordinance prohibits officers from exercising the authority of their office while off duty and under the influence of alcohol. Therefore, officers who are under the influence of alcohol and not _____ shall not carry firearms.

Answer 87

engaged in the performance of their assigned work duties

Question 88

LIMITATIONS

Limitations apply to officers carrying firearms in the following areas and circumstances.

d. Under the Influence of Medication.

Officers shall exercise prudence when taking prescribed or over-the-counter medications that may impair their physical or mental faculties.

Medications affect individuals differently and numerous medications come with warnings that they may cause drowsiness or other impairing side effects.

Officers who _____ shall not carry a firearm. Officers shall not carry a firearm while experiencing impairing side effects from any medication.

Answer 88

take medication or a combination of medications that they know will cause impairment or that have a high probability of causing impairment

Question 89

AIRPORTS AND AIRCRAFT

Airports

Armed officers who want to enter the sterile area of an airport shall advise the proper authorities of their intentions to do so before entering the airport security checkpoint.

Officers shall present any documents or law enforcement credentials necessary to verify their identity, and shall…

Answer 89

comply with the decision of airport authorities to allow or deny access.

Question 90

AIRPORTS AND AIRCRAFT

Aircraft

Officers shall limit a request to carry a firearm aboard an aircraft to a situation in which…

Prior to air travel, officers are required to complete the _____ training program available at the Airport Division (IAH).

Answer 90

1) a weapon is required to ensure the safe completion of a law enforcement mission.
2) “Law Enforcement Officers Flying Armed”

Question 91

AIRPORTS AND AIRCRAFT

Aircraft

A National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS) message to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel shall be submitted for any officer flying armed.

An NLETS message shall be generated for each direction of travel.

In order to obtain the NLETS messages of authorization, officers with an operational need to fly armed shall, at least 48 hours in advance, submit to the Office of the Chief of Police a written request that contains the following information needed by Emergency Communications Division (ECO) personnel:

a.
Officer’s name and ____

b.
_____ number

c.
_____individual type and the individual’s name

d.
Name of the ____

e.
Flight ____

f.
Departing, connecting, and final _____

The above information shall be complete and accurate and is necessary for all flights that are leaving, connecting, or returning to the city of Houston.

Answer 91

a.
Officer’s name and employee number

b.
Cellular telephone number

c.
Escorted individual type and the individual’s name

d.
Name of the airline and the flight numbers

e.
Flight dates

f.
Departing, connecting, and final destination airports

Question 92

AIRPORTS AND AIRCRAFT

Aircraft

Once approved, a copy of the Chief of Police’s authorization letter shall be forwarded to the on-duty ECO supervisor for review.

The Chief of Police’s authorization letter shall authorize ECO to generate the requests via NLETS.

The reply from TSA shall contain a unique eight-digit alphanumeric identifier.

The on-duty ECO sergeant shall ensure the reply message is received and forwarded to the…

Answer 92

requesting officer in the most expedient manner possible for presentation to the appropriate authorities at the airport.

Question 93

AIRPORTS AND AIRCRAFT

Aircraft

Should a flight have to be changed or if a flight is cancelled, particularly when the date of a flight changes, a new NLETS message shall be generated by contacting an ECO supervisor.

When time is critical, the _____ may act as the Chief of Police’s representative and send the request letter and authorization directly to the on-duty ECO supervisor.

Answer 93

assistant chief of the Criminal Investigations Command

Question 94

PERSONAL FIREARMS

Officers often own or possess firearms for which they have no reasonable expectation of being called upon to use while acting in a police capacity (e.g., firearms normally used only for hunting or as part of a personal collection).

Firearms possessed solely for such purposes and that are _____, need not be registered with the department.

Answer 94

never carried while the individuals are acting in the capacity of police officers

Question 95

PLACES WEAPONS PROHIBITED FOR CIVILIAN AND OTHER CITY EMPLOYEES

City ordinance prohibits City employees (except classified employees) from carrying firearms or other dangerous weapons while on duty, in a City vehicle, or in any City owned or controlled building, except as provided by federal or state law.

Specifically, state law allows a City employee who holds a license to carry a handgun under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Texas Government Code or who lawfully possesses a firearm, to…

Answer 95

transport or store a firearm or ammunition the employee is authorized by law to possess in a locked, privately owned motor vehicle in a City parking lot, City parking garage, or other City parking area that the City provides for its employees.