POLICE CYCLE-PATROLS IN FINLAND: A QUALITATIVE STUDY APPLYING THE DIAMOND MODEL

摘要

This article describes a study in Finland of self-assessed risks and safety of policemen and women patrolling on bicycles. The study included focus-group interviews with police officers about their activities and ways of improving their situation. The interviews were structured into five different solution areas according to the Diamond Model: cycle-patrol officer, police bicycle, infrastructure, society/structure and communication. The study also included a questionnaire about police cycling activities in Helsinki, and active cycle-patrol officers' responses were analysed. The purpose of this study was to look at how police activities, in Helsinki can be advanced and, in particular, how cycle-patrol members perceive their own safety, visibility and calming effect on other road users. It was also intended to study demands on the bicycle and other equipment used.