Rules For Classes

Rules While In Class

Our primary objective in every training course is to maintain a safe, structured, and professional learning environment that promotes effective instruction while minimizing the risk of injury, liability, or unnecessary disruption. Each student plays an important role in maintaining that standard.

To accomplish this, the following rules and expectations are strictly enforced. Certain specialized courses (such as firearms, defensive tactics, or TASER certification) may include additional safety requirements, which will be communicated in advance or at the start of class.

All participants are expected to review, understand, and adhere to these rules before attending any class.

1. Weapons Policy

General Prohibition:
No firearms, knives, or other weapons are permitted inside the classroom or training environment unless expressly authorized by the instructor for a specific portion of training.

TASER Training Exception:

  • TASER devices may only be brought into the classroom when instructed by the lead instructor.
  • All batteries must be removed prior to entering the classroom.
  • No live cartridges are to be brought into the training area; any cartridges required for exercises will be provided by the instructor.
  • Participants will be notified when to retrieve and reassemble their TASER devices under supervision.

Firearms and Other Weapon Courses:

  • All firearms must be unloaded, with the chamber locked open and the magazine removed.
  • Ammunition must be stored separately and will only be permitted under instructor supervision at designated times and locations.
  • Any equipment brought to class is subject to inspection by the instructor or safety officer.

Violations:
Any participant found in possession of a prohibited weapon, live ammunition, or attempting to conceal such items will be immediately dismissed from the class without refund and may be barred from future enrollment.

2. Conduct & Behavior

Professional Conduct:
Students must demonstrate respect toward instructors, staff, and fellow participants at all times. Disruptive, argumentative, or disrespectful behavior—including talking over others, interrupting, or creating a hostile environment—will not be tolerated.

Consequences:

  • First Offense: Verbal warning.
  • Second Offense: Dismissal from the class without refund.

Instructor Authority:
Instructors have full authority to establish and enforce additional classroom or range-specific rules as needed.

Zero Tolerance for Unsafe Acts:
Any act or omission that jeopardizes safety—such as mishandling training equipment, failure to follow commands, or horseplay—will result in immediate removal without refund.

3. Electronics & Distractions

Cell Phones and Devices:
All mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches must be silenced or turned off prior to the start of class.

Emergencies:
If you anticipate an emergency requiring phone access, notify the instructor before class begins.

Recording Policy:
Recording, photographing, or live-streaming is strictly prohibited without written authorization.

4. Attendance & Timeliness

Arrival Requirements:
Arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete sign-in and safety checks.

Prompt Start:
Classes start exactly at the scheduled time.

Late Entry:
Students arriving after class has begun may be denied entry without refund. Notify your instructor immediately if you are delayed.

Absences:
Missed portions cannot be made up the same day and may affect certification eligibility.

5. Materials & Preparedness

Required Items:
Bring a pen and notebook for notes.

Dress Code:

  • Closed-toe shoes and comfortable, professional clothing required.
  • For physical or tactical courses: avoid dangling jewelry or loose clothing.
  • Inappropriate attire may result in being asked to leave or change.

Hydration & Meals:
Bring water and snacks. Scheduled breaks will be provided; returning late may result in dismissal from that session.

6. Safety & Compliance

Follow All Directions:
Participants must follow all instructor commands immediately and without argument.

Protective Equipment:
All required protective gear (eye, ear, gloves, etc.) must be worn when directed.

Medical Conditions:
Inform the instructor privately of any medical conditions that could impact participation.

TASER Voluntary Exposure:

  • Must sign a waiver prior to exposure.
  • Strongly encouraged to consult your doctor beforehand.
  • Discuss any health concerns privately with your instructor.

7. Enforcement and Accountability

Failure to comply with these rules or instructor directions may result in:

  1. Verbal warning.
  2. Immediate dismissal without refund.
  3. Notification to employers, sponsors, or licensing agencies.
  4. Permanent exclusion from future training.

By attending any class, you acknowledge you have read, understood, and agree to follow all rules and instructor directives.

8. Range Rules & Firearms Safety

For all live-fire and weapons-handling courses, strict firearms safety protocols are in effect. Violations may result in immediate dismissal from the course and possible notification to your agency or licensing authority.

8.1 Core Firearms Safety Rules

  1. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded—always.
  2. Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you are ready to fire.
  4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

These four rules are non-negotiable and apply at all times—on and off the firing line.

8.2 Range Procedures

  • Range Officer Authority:
    The Range Safety Officer (RSO) or designated instructor has complete authority over all range operations. All commands must be followed immediately.
  • Cease Fire Command:
    When “Cease Fire” is called, immediately stop shooting, remove your finger from the trigger, point the firearm downrange, and await further instructions.
  • Muzzle Direction:
    Firearms must always remain pointed downrange toward the designated berm or target area. At no time should a firearm be pointed at another person or turned sideways, even when unloaded.
  • Loading and Unloading:
    Firearms may only be loaded, unloaded, or handled on command from the instructor. Handling weapons behind the firing line is prohibited.
  • Safety Area:
    A designated Safety Area will be provided for administrative handling of firearms (holstering, cleaning, maintenance). No live ammunition is allowed in this area.
  • Range Entry and Exit:
    Do not enter or exit the firing line without permission. When leaving the line, firearms must be cleared and holstered or cased.
  • Malfunctions:
    In the event of a malfunction or misfire, keep the muzzle pointed downrange, finger off the trigger, and raise your non-firing hand to signal the instructor for assistance.
  • Eye and Ear Protection:
    Mandatory at all times while on the range—no exceptions.

8.3 Ammunition and Equipment

  • Only ammunition approved by the instructor may be used. Steel-core, tracer, or reloaded ammunition may be prohibited.
  • Firearms inspections may be conducted to ensure they are safe to operate. Unsafe or modified firearms may not be permitted.
  • Each shooter is responsible for bringing serviceable equipment (holsters, magazines, belts, etc.).

8.4 Behavior and Safety Enforcement

  • Horseplay, roughhousing, or unsafe behavior on or near the range will result in immediate removal without refund.
  • Consumption of alcohol or drugs (including prescription medication that impairs judgment) prior to or during training is strictly prohibited.
  • Any participant suspected of being under the influence will be immediately dismissed and may be reported to authorities or employers.
  • Repeated safety violations or failure to follow commands will result in permanent exclusion from all NM TASERS And More Training LLC programs.

8.5 Post-Range Conduct

  • All firearms must be unloaded and holstered or cased before leaving the range area.
  • Participants are responsible for cleaning up spent brass, targets, and debris as directed.
  • Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly after handling firearms or ammunition to avoid lead exposure.

Acknowledgment:
By participating in range activities, you acknowledge that you have read and understood all range rules and firearms safety standards and agree to comply fully with instructor and Range Safety Officer instructions. Failure to do so may result in dismissal, forfeiture of certification, and potential reporting to licensing authorities.

9. Use of Force Training Rules

Use of Force training involves scenario-based exercises, physical contact, and simulated stress conditions. These classes are designed to teach proper judgment, de-escalation, and the appropriate application of force under legal and ethical standards. Because of the heightened risk inherent in such training, the following additional rules apply to all participants:

9.1 Purpose and Mindset

  • Professionalism First: Use of Force training is not about aggression—it is about control, judgment, and restraint. Participants must conduct themselves as professionals at all times.
  • Realistic, Not Hostile: Scenarios are designed to replicate real-life stress without creating personal conflict. Personal attacks, intimidation, or retaliation are strictly prohibited.
  • De-escalation Priority: The primary goal of all Use of Force instruction is to reduce or avoid the need for physical confrontation whenever possible.

9.2 Safety and Contact Rules

  • Instructor Control: No exercise, drill, or scenario may begin until instructed by the lead instructor or safety officer.
  • Physical Contact:
    • Only engage in contact when specifically directed and within the boundaries defined by the instructor.
    • Strikes to the head, throat, groin, spine, or joints are strictly prohibited unless using clearly marked training equipment under instructor supervision.
  • Protective Gear:
    • Safety gear (gloves, eye protection, mouth guards, padded suits, etc.) must be worn whenever physical contact or role-playing occurs.
    • If gear is damaged or does not fit properly, notify the instructor immediately.
  • Weapons in Scenarios:
    • Only approved training weapons (rubber, blue gun, or inert replicas) are allowed in Use of Force exercises.
    • No live weapons or ammunition are permitted in the scenario area under any circumstances.
    • TASER devices, if part of the exercise, must be inert or set to training cartridges only, and handled only when directed.

9.3 Scenario Conduct

  • Controlled Intensity: Students must maintain composure even in high-stress simulations. Excessive force or uncontrolled behavior will result in removal from the exercise and possible dismissal.
  • Obey Scenario Roles: Participants must adhere to assigned roles (officer, subject, bystander, etc.) and follow scenario instructions exactly. Improvisation that changes the intent or safety of the scenario is not permitted.
  • Stop Commands:
    • At any time, anyone may call “STOP” or “SAFETY” to immediately end an exercise.
    • Upon hearing either command, all movement ceases, and participants are to freeze and await direction from the instructor.
  • Injury or Incident Reporting:
    • Any injury, no matter how minor, must be reported immediately.
    • If you feel unwell, dizzy, or unsafe, you must stop participation and inform the instructor.

9.4 Legal and Ethical Conduct

  • Understanding the Law: Participants are expected to learn and apply the legal standards of Use of Force under New Mexico State Law (NMSA 1978) and relevant case law.
  • No Real Arrests or Detentions: All handcuffing, control holds, or takedowns during training are simulations. No student has authority to detain, restrain, or “arrest” another participant outside of the supervised exercise.
  • Respect Boundaries:
    • Any unwanted or inappropriate contact—physical or verbal—will result in immediate dismissal.
    • Harassment, intimidation, or mocking of other participants during scenarios or discussions is strictly prohibited.
  • Confidentiality:
    • Scenario outcomes, role-player actions, and debrief discussions are confidential and may not be recorded, photographed, or shared publicly.
    • This protects privacy and prevents misrepresentation of training content.

9.5 Fitness and Medical Awareness

  • Self-Assessment: Students must judge their own physical limits. Inform the instructor if you are injured, fatigued, or unable to perform a maneuver safely.
  • Medical Clearance: Participants with health concerns (heart conditions, joint injuries, etc.) should consult a medical professional prior to participation.
  • Voluntary Participation: While training may involve realistic stress, participation in physical contact portions is voluntary. You may opt out of specific drills without penalty, provided you notify the instructor.

9.6 Instructor Authority and Enforcement

  • Immediate Authority: The instructor may stop any student’s participation at any time for safety, medical, or behavioral reasons.
  • Zero Tolerance: Any act of intentional harm, reckless behavior, or defiance of instructor direction will result in immediate dismissal without refund.
  • Legal Reporting: Serious misconduct (such as intentional injury, harassment, or unsafe weapon handling) may be reported to the sponsoring employer, law enforcement agency, or licensing body.

9.7 Post-Scenario Debriefing

  • Mandatory Participation: All students must attend the debrief following each scenario. This is where lessons learned, decision-making, and alternative responses are analyzed.
  • Professional Feedback: Respectful discussion and critique are expected. Instructors will focus on performance improvement, not personal criticism.
  • Confidentiality Reminder: Debriefs are part of protected training content and may not be discussed outside class without written approval from NM TASERS And More Training LLC.

Acknowledgment:
By attending Use of Force training, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to follow all rules outlined herein. You accept full responsibility for adhering to all safety standards, instructor directives, and legal principles presented during the course.