The Hidden Safety Measures Behind Secret Service Agents and Presidential Limos
Many people may have noticed that in TV shows and movies, Secret Service agents usually wait until the President is almost at the limousine before opening the doors and then close them right after he exits. This, however, is not the correct protocol used in real-world scenarios. Secret Service Special Agents have developed a meticulous door-opening and closing routine that prioritizes the safety of the protectee. This article delves into the reasons behind this protocol and the importance of a well-executed process.
The Order of Business: Opening and Closing Doors
Contrary to popular depiction in movies and TV shows, Secret Service agents do not wait for the President to be close to the limousine before opening the doors. Instead, they open the doors just before the President reaches the car, ensuring that the doors are ready for immediate access in case of an emergency. After the President steps out, the doors are left open until it is no longer necessary as a refuge. This strategy plays a crucial role in providing the President with a safe haven in the event of a sudden attack. Even if a coordinated attack takes down the agents around the limousine, the doors remain open, allowing the President to safely enter the vehicle.
Heavy and Armored Doors: An Ingenious Design
The Presidential limousine is equipped with incredibly heavy and armored doors that are as substantial as those of an airliner. These doors are designed to protect the President from potential threats. Secret Service agents maintain control over these massive doors by grasping them from the top and center. This technique allows them to close the doors quickly during an attack, reducing the risk of injury and facilitating a swift response.
The agents also extend their bodies between the door and the protectee, creating an additional barrier against potential shooters. This positioning ensures that the protectee is protected from any stray bullets or projectiles. To open the doors, both hands are used for maximum control. In a rush, a protectee may hit their head while getting in, or other factors could jeopardize their safety. Therefore, using both hands is essential for ensuring the protectee's well-being.
Holding the Corner: A Practical Safety Measure
Secret Service agents use a specific technique to hold the corner of the car door. By holding the corner, they can keep the door stable, providing a clear reference point for the protectee. This prevents the protectee from bumping their head, a potential injury that can occur when the door is not properly aligned. Additionally, holding the corner provides a larger target for the agent, increasing their ability to protect the individual inside the vehicle.
The corners of car doors are notoriously pointy and can cause significant pain upon impact. Regular car doors can hurt when they hit the head, but the pointy corners of armored Presidential limousines would cause even more severe damage. By holding the corner, the agent ensures that the door is stable and in the correct position, enhancing safety for the protectee.
This meticulous protocol highlights the dedication and expertise of Secret Service agents who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of those in their charge. Understanding and adhering to these protocol measures are essential for maintaining the highest level of protection in high-risk situations.