Police officers are important people who keep our neighbourhood safe. They are responsible for reducing the crime rate and protecting the law. They work in different places all over the world. In this presentation, you will learn some interesting facts about police forces in other countries.

Police officers need to observe the neighbourhood and react to crises as quickly as they can. Although some police officers control the area on foot, they are more likely to use a police vehicle. This allows them to carry more equipment and react to situations more quickly. In some countries officers may occasionally use motorbikes, horses, or bicycles.

Don’t be surprised if you go to Spain and see some officers on horseback. They often monitor the area using horses during special celebrations or parades. Why? Thanks to that, they can easily spot a possible threat and go through the crowd quickly. What’s more, riding a horse adds a touch of tradition.

As you may know, police officers can use bikes to observe areas in many countries around the world. It’s a common practice in the UK, the USA, the Netherlands or in Canada. Bicycles are more eco‑friendly and police officers have a better chance to interact with the community.

Did you know that American police officers often participate in community aid programmes, like “Cops and Kids”? These are special events where policemen and policewomen give performances, discuss and play games with teenagers and young adults. It builds trust and positive relationships with the whole community.

Policemen in Iceland are known for their friendly and polite personality, too. They often stop to chat with local people and tourists to make them feel safe and welcome. They do not even possess firearms. Such behaviour allows police officers to understand people’s needs and prevent crimes more effectively.

Have you ever seen a dancing policeman? No? Then go to China. It happens that Chinese police officers who direct traffic, entertain drivers with their dance to attract people’s attention and to make it a unique and engaging experience. In addition, some police officers decided to video their dance and show it to people for Traffic Safety Awareness Day in 2013. Interesting, isn’t it?

If you want to be a police officer and work in Thailand, be careful and don’t park your car illegally, don’t litter and don’t go to work late. Why? Because minor offences like that can be punished in a strange way. Police officers who do such things are forced to wear Hello Kitty armbands for a few days. It is done to embarrass such a policeman and to make him feel guilty.

Police officers in India are encouraged to grow moustaches. Officials say that it helps an officer gain more respect and improves his look. It’s because in some parts of India moustaches symbolise power, respect and honour. They are seen as a sign of authority.

As you can see police forces can differ depending on the region or country but the one thing that doesn’t change is that all of them care about people’s safety and well‑being. What about police officers in your country? Do you know some interesting facts about them?