The role of law enforcement agencies like the Calgary Police Service (CPS) and RCMP is to protect and serve the public. To do this, officers must be equipped with the skills and abilities necessary to perform their duties effectively and safely. One essential aspect of this is maintaining good vision.
During the recruitment process, candidates are required to undergo a comprehensive eye exam to determine if they have any visual impairments that could compromise their ability to perform their duties effectively.
The Importance Of A Law Enforcement Eye Exam
Visual Acuity
Visual acuity tests how well candidates can see at different distances, including far, intermediate, and near. This is crucial for officers when they need to identify license plates, read street signs, or recognize faces from a distance. Depth perception is also critical as it helps officers judge distances accurately and make split-second decisions.
Colour Vision
Colour vision is a crucial aspect of the eye exam for Calgary Police Services and RCMP officers. They must be able to distinguish between different colours throughout their patrol shifts for tasks like vehicle descriptions and identifying suspects based on their clothing descriptions. Deficiencies in colour vision can lead to misinterpretation of vital information and jeopardize the safety of the public.
Visual Field Testing
Visual field testing evaluates how much of the environment the officer can see at once. This is obviously critical in emergency situations. A limited visual field could result in missing vital details, such as an attacker approaching from the side or rear.
Night Vision Testing
In addition to the above tests, Calgary Police Services and RCMP candidates who have had LASIK, PRK or other refractive surgeries may need additional testing to evaluate their night vision. These surgeries can affect how well the officer can see in low-light situations, which is essential for nighttime patrols.
It is important to note that the eye exam for law enforcement officers is not a one-time event. Regular eye exams are necessary to ensure that officers maintain good vision throughout their careers. As they age, vision can change, and it is vital to catch any deficiencies early on to prevent them from affecting the officer's performance.
Calgary Police Services and RCMP Eye Exams At My Optometrist
Maintaining good vision is essential for Calgary Police Services and RCMP officers to perform their duties effectively and safely. Eye exams are an essential part of the recruitment process and must be conducted regularly throughout an officer's career to ensure that any visual impairments are detected and addressed promptly. At My Optometrist Calgary, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care to law enforcement candidates and officers to ensure they maintain optimal vision for their duties.
Our team of optometrists is experienced in conducting comprehensive eye exams for candidates, and we provide the necessary documentation required for the recruitment process. We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the accuracy of our tests, and we work closely with candidates to ensure they understand the results of their exam. To book a Calgary Police Services and RCMP officers eye exam with one of our eye doctors, contact My Optometrist at one of our three locations at Health First in SE Calgary, Sunridge in NE Calgary, or Three Hills, AB. You can also call us or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: Where can I find the vision report forms for CPS?
A: You can find a downloadable version of the Calgary Police Services vision report here. If you have had previous eye surgeries, you need this report and form.
Q: Where can I find the vision report forms for RCMP?
A: You can find a downloadable version of the RCMP vision report here.
Q: What happens at an eye exam?
A: A CPS or RCMP eye exam is very similar to a standard comprehensive adult eye exam (for those between 19 and 64 years of age) at My Optometrist Calgary. It includes:
- A review of your past and present eye and general health issues, as well as your family history.
- A discussion of your visual needs at work or school, at home, and for leisure.
- Measurement of your current level of vision with and without your glasses or contact lenses, and determination of your prescription.
- Assessment of your ability to move and use both eyes together.
- Measurement of the pressure inside of your eyes.
- A visual field assessment to measure your peripheral vision
- Careful examination of the health of your eyes inside and outside. Drops to dilate your pupils may be recommended and administered.
- A photograph of the back of your eyes.