Observations

In this chapter, the author offers observations arising from the research. In an effort to answer the question regarding which was the most dangerous decade for officers, a comparison is made of all the analyses undertaken to arrive at a conclusion that two decades tied for that title. This chapter also explains why there is continuing room for improvement in the collection of “near-miss” data, in delivering a safer working environment for officers and discusses the result of policy changes and improved equipment. This chapter touches on the impact that the introduction of Armed Offenders Squads had on the lethal risk environment and discusses the ongoing issue of officer perception of risk versus the realities.