Spit and bite guards issued to Lincolnshire police frontline officers

Lincolnshire Police has issued all frontline officers spit and bite guards to help protect against assaults.

The hood made of thin breathing material is to be placed over individuals spitting or biting during altercations with officers.

Lincolnshire Police’s assistant chief constable Shaun West said: “None of our officers should have to endure assaults of any kind and being bitten or having blood spat at you is particularly unpleasant.

It should never be considered as an acceptable part of the job but, sadly, it does happen.

“Spit and bite guards are medically approved and all officers who may need to use one will be fully trained as to how to use them safely and proportionately.”