Things that must go

I podcast a radio program named "X96 Radio from Hell" (for people who feel like hell in the morning) which is a local morning show on 96.3 fm. The radio hosts of this show (Kerry, Bill and Gina) have a bit on their show named, "Things that must go." It is where listeners email lists of different things that bug them or behavior that they want the community to stop doing.

From a police officers point of view I have a few things I wish the public would not do. So if you as readers come across another officer try to keep these things in mind. It does not bug all officers but it is definitely annoying to me...so knock it off.

1. If your kids are misbehaving in public do not say to your kid, "You better stop or that officer is gonna come take you away...see...here he comes" as I walk by. DO NOT teach your children to fear policemen. Not only is it bad parenting its just plan annoying for me to hear everywhere I go. Makes a guy feel great about himself as I send every kid screaming and crying as they run away from me.
2. If you happen to be the unfortunate soul that is pulled over by an officer wait for him to approach your window before you start opening your glove box and rifling around the ginormous stack of papers looking for your registration and insurance. I understand you are only thinking a head but officers think differently. They don't know if you are a soccer mom or a felon on the run. Officers have safety on their mind at all times and will always look to see if you are reaching for a gun. Keep BOTH hands on the steering wheel as they approach the car. Then do as instructed if told to get your paperwork.
3. CLEAN OUT YOUR GLOVE BOXES! You only need the current years insurance and registration. It is absolutely okay to throw away (shred) old registrations and proof of insurance cards. I had a guy hand me a registration from 1999 the other day! If there are only the two up to date papers in the glove box there won't need to be any rifling through papers and you won't go through the embarrassment of the officer seeing your hand shake as you hold each paper wondering what you need to give him.
4. Don't say, "What seems to be the problem officer?" Not only does it make you seem clueless its just plain cliche to say anymore these days. The officer will usually start to tell you anyway.
5. Don't give attitude or debate with the officer about the reason for the stop. Officers have discretion about whom they issue citations to. Obviously if you treat the officer poorly expect to get a citation in return.
6. If by chance an officer starts to approach you don't attempt the joke, "I didn't do it!" or "I'm innocent" or "He did it" has you point to a friend and lift your hands in the air in mock gun point. I can't begin to tell you how many people say this. Not funny and over played people.

Just a few ideas and suggestions for you to digest. Who knows...maybe it just might change the outcome of your day.