Posted on April 1, 2019 at 9:33 AM by Kate Berg
April 1, 2019
Ask the Chief
Q: Why do police officers wear blue uniforms?
In 1845, the first police department in the United States was established in New York, and the dark navy blue color was chosen after London's police department uniform. London chose the color blue to distinguish themselves from the British military's red uniform and to help them blend with the average citizen.
To this day, the majority of police departments in the United States continue to select and wear a dark navy blue uniform; the shoulder patch and the size and shape of the badge is what sets each department apart.
There are several advantages of this dark navy blue color: it is much easier to clean and maintain than a lighter/brighter color, and the dark color makes it harder to see the officer at night, which increases officer safety. For more on the symbolism and benefits of the blue uniform, review “The psychological influence of the police uniform” link listed in the references below. The uniform can invoke various emotions when interacting with citizens, based on their prior contact and experiences, therefore, it is vital that officers interact with citizens with respect and professionalism to create a more positive impression and feelings when the uniform is present.
The R.W.P.D's reservists wear light blue, sheriff deputies wear brown, and the Minnesota State Patrol wear maroon and gold.
Resources:
1. How the U.S. Got its Police Forcehttp://time.com/4779112/police-history-origins/
2. The History of Policing in the United States
https://plsonline.eku.edu/insidelook/history-policing-united-states-part-1
3. The psychological influence of the police uniform
https://www.policeone.com/police-products/apparel/uniforms/articles/99417-The-psychological-influence-of-the-police-uniform/
Please Note:
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