Hydration for police officers

This page is intended for police officers, enforcement officers, security guards, and other professionals who need to remain alert, mobile, and fit for duty for extended periods during their work.

The information is especially relevant for long shifts, early shifts, night shifts, hot days, physically demanding assignments, and times when breaks are irregular.

In police work, a day rarely goes exactly according to plan. You may spend a long time on the road, stand for extended periods, suddenly need to act physically, or stay alert for hours during quiet moments.

In such circumstances, many people forget to drink enough. Coffee quickly becomes the default, while water and electrolytes often receive attention only when thirst, headaches, or fatigue have already become noticeable.

• Don’t start your shift dehydrated.
• Drink throughout your shift instead of waiting until you’re thirsty.
• Pay extra attention on hot days, during extensive outdoor work, or when exerting yourself physically.
• Use caffeine mindfully and not as a substitute for hydration.
• Bring a reusable water bottle or shaker so drinking becomes part of your routine.

Hydration in police work is primarily about preparation. You don’t want to make adjustments only once your body is already sending signals.