Police urged to review entry equipment

Officers delayed entering premises while attending suicide

Police are being urged to review equipment used to enter premises after they were unable to gain access to a home while attending a suicide callout.

Officers called to the address, in August 2020, didn't have the right kit to allow them to enter the property as soon as they arrived.

Coroner of Inquests Jayne Hughes says the delay in gaining entry didn't contribute to the man's death in this case, but is urging the Isle of Man Constabulary to review all methods of entry equipment used by its officers.

She also expressed concern that the officers involved didn't check their vehicle to identify what equipment was present before attending the scene.

Mrs Hughes is recommending officers be required to check they have sufficient equipment prior to patrols, and to ensure training on using such devices is carried out.

Officers told the enquiry that procedures have already been changed to ensure it's known what equipment is available in police vehicles.