Coastal Carolina University public safety officers sporing new :Armorskin” uniforms
Conway, S.C. June 6 2018 Public Safety officers at Coastal Carolina University are sporting some new uniforms Monday!
All 45 officers now have their own set of Armorskin, which adds comfort and professionalism to their appearance, as well as extra safety.
The new digs are made by Blauer, a company that specializes in tactical clothing and equipment. They’re similar to the style Conway and Horry County police have recently adopted.
“I saw an officer wearing it and did some research,” CCU Lt. David Klauder said. “I was looking for ways we could be more comfortable in the summertime but also find a uniform that shows more professionalism.”
The Department of Public Safety at CCU is a hybrid department: part security officers, part Class I police officers. The department’s old uniforms were made up of a simple polo shirt with embroidered patches over a vest– a uniform that often lead to some misunderstandings.
“We get mistaken for security guards when going to a call or making contact with the public, and they think we don’t have the power to handle the situation,” Klauder said. “With the Armorskin, our badge and nameplate are on the outside, so we communicate immediately who we are and that we can handle the situation.”
Another thing the officers love about their new uniforms: relief from the heat.
The Armorskin uniform is built to carry a bulletproof safety vest; a feature not possible with the old uniforms. Officers would have to wear an undershirt, then the bulletproof vest and then their polo shirt. This practice was not ideal in combination with the southern heat.
“I love it,” said Inv. Daniel Todd. “The comfort is great and it makes a big difference when we are out answering calls.”
Klauder worked for almost a year to get approval for the department’s new uniforms. He put in the time doing research and putting together a cost analysis. Director of Public Safety Chief David Roper said he saw Klauder’s determination and knew the other officers wanted the new uniforms as well.
“They all thought they looked more professional,” Roper said. “Some of the other area police departments moved to them, so we followed suit.”
The old uniforms will be used for off-duty training exercises or practicing on the shooting range for re-certifications.
WPDE
