MT. VERNON, IL — If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to be in a police officer’s shoes when it comes to a tense confrontation, with Project Blue Life, you have that opportunity. The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) have put together the program to simulate shooting scenarios via video simulators, safe weapons and experienced instructors.

President of the FOP, Chris Southwood says he hopes those that partake in the simulator will think twice before passing judgment on either side when these situations arise.

The Mt. Vernon Police Department along with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office teamed up with the FOP to host a simulator Wednesday. Chief of the MVPD Trent Page says it’s difficult for someone to judge something they’ve never been through.

Sheriff Jeff Bullard says Project Blue Life is vital to the education process for the public.

The FOP was founded in 1915 and is the largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers in the United States representing other officers.