Roll Call Briefings

These projects (also known as shift change briefings) take place when a shift change occurs at a police department.  Typically a “roll call” is done to ensure officers are present and aware of any pressing issues.  This quick meeting provides an opportunity to show support for local and campus law enforcement and remind officers of the importance of enforcing underage drinking and impaired driving laws.  When police officers feel supported by their community, they are more likely to uphold even the most unpopular and challenging laws, like those related to underage drinking.

Students, Faculty - Staff, Parents & Community Members

• Call the campus and/or local police department and ask to meet with the Police Chief. (Be sure to take not more than a few volunteers to the initial meeting.)
• To prepare, create a list of issues to discuss including a few key points to emphasize (ID checks at local bars and stores, impaired driving enforcement for zero tolerance for underage drivers and .08 enforcement for adults 21 and over, MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving).
• Consider selecting a student or volunteer who can share a personal story about alcohol’s negative impact on his/her life.
• Ask the Chief to discuss the challenges regarding the enforcement of underage drinking or impaired driving laws and offer your gratitude and support.
• Ask the Chief if one or two volunteers could give a brief, five-minute talk at one of the upcoming roll call or shift change briefings to encourage and thank officers on behalf of students and/or the community.
• Prepare a brief speech to thank officers and encourage their support.  Follow-up to verify a time and date for the briefing (best case scenario is one of the weekend shift change meetings).
• If you get a “no,” continue to offer support and don’t stop asking for the roll call briefing until you get a “yes.”
• Always send thank you notes to anyone willing to meet with you.
• Consider organizing some type of recognition event to follow your briefing.