The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit responds to critical incidents such as barricaded subjects, suicidal persons, high-risk warrants, VIP protection, and searches for violent felons. The primary task is to save lives. On average, SWAT is called out ten times a year.
Individuals who volunteer to serve with the SWAT unit are required to take a psychological test, physical agility test, firearms tests, and pass an oral board. Officers are required to train once a month, and sometimes bi-weekly, in a variety of settings throughout the city.