Subject: 1998 Monadnock Baton Chart

Date: 1998

Ten years ago, we created and implemented a color-coded trauma chart built around commonly taught defensive tactics (DT) target areas. Green. Yellow. Red. Colors not only found in our chart, but standard colors used by other American law enforcement agencies in their DT charts, then as now. We decided to explain and show by these three colors the elements of our "Protect & Restrain" philosophy - baton blocks, control-holds and strikes - on the human body.

Old 1988 Chart

New 1998 Chart

We are now introducing our updated chart called the 1998 Monadnock Baton Chart (MBC). This chart is now available in a 8 1/2" x 11" card size and in a much larger poster size. We believe that this update is a positive step forward.

The "Protect & Restrain" principles used in our 1988 chart are the same as in our new Monadnock Baton Chart. As you will see some color-coded areas have been adjusted because of, but not limited to, the following areas.

1. The chart has been made easier to read by making the chart a reference for "baton striking" only. Using the chart in this way, simplifies it for students. The application for the baton in blocking and restraint skills are strong, viable elements in our baton training. Baton blocking and restraint skills are described in the "Green Target Areas" box.

2. Over several years, American courts have made rulings affecting many aspects of police use of force. We are mindful of this. You may read more of this in the "Introduction", "Background" and "Concept in Action" sections on the Use of Force Page by clicking here.

3. Our strongest baton (PR-24 & MEB) training influence in international law enforcement communities requires us to overcome many language barriers, among other things. The 1998 MBC's visual conciseness makes this task easier for us to do, abroad and also in the USA.

It is important to note that Monadnock still supports the initial Monadnock Baton Chart, called the Escalation of Trauma Chart. In fact, the Council would support any agency or instructor who finds it necessary to raise a specific target area to a higher color-coded classification; for example, the collarbone from a Yellow to a Red Target Area. Any agency or instructor who elects to do so must clearly document that action. The Council would not support any change whereby a specific Target Area's color-code is lowered; for example, changing the collarbone from a Yellow to a Green Target Area.

Again, we believe the 1998 Monadnock Baton Chart is a good step forward for all of us.

The information, pictures, and graphics on the MEB program presented on this site are the sole property of the Monadnock Police Training Council, Inc., and used  with permission.