Policy Text
ESCORTS
EFFECTIVE DATE: 02/01/96 STANDARD NO. 031 REVISED: 04/04/18
REPLACES: SOP Escorts 05-04.1-2 – Rev. 01/01/03; Rev. 06/06/12
OBJECTIVE: To establish guidelines for officers conducting escorts.
POLICY: It is the policy of the Homestead Police Department (HPD) to provide assistance
with the safe movement of vehicles that are part of a procession.
SCOPE: All employees of this Department will be governed by the procedures set forth
below.
I. PROCEDURES:
A. General:
1. Unless approved by a supervisor, all escorts will be conducted by off-duty
officers.
2. All escorts must originate within the City unless:
a. Assistance is requested by another agency.
b. Approved by the Chief of Police, or designee.
3. Every escort must be discussed among those officers involved concerning the
route to be taken, construction, delays, hazards and any other considerations.
4. A minimum of two (2) officers are required for an escort, unless otherwise
approved by a supervisor.
5. If the procession consists of more than 20 vehicles, additional officers will be
required at the rate of one (1) officer per ten (10) vehicles.
6. The purpose of a police escort is not expeditious movement, but safe movement.
At no time will an escort be conducted at a speed faster than the posted speed
limit. However, an exception would be escorting Miami-Dade Fire Rescue or
otherwise, approved by a supervisor.
7. Upon entering intersections controlled by traffic control devices, the officer will
use due care to ensure the safety of all motorists.
8. Officers will utilize lights and siren when necessary to meet the requirements of
Florida State Statutes 316.126.
9. Officers must utilize extreme caution when conducting escorts; officers must
ensure that their intentions are understood by the driver it is meant for. Even
Escorts – SOP# 031
though your emergency equipment may be on, do not assume a driver observes
you or that he understands your intentions.