As a summer Park Ranger for Westchester County Parks Department, I was directly supervised by Westchester County police officers. I attended a three week (121 hour) training program at the Westchester County Police Academy. Upon the completion of training, I received certification for Peace Officer training and Fire Extinguisher and Fire Safety training. My role was to help ensure that the parks were safe and enjoyable for those who use them. My work duties included offering assistance to park users, explain park rules and procedures, help in searches for lost children and make regular security checks of buildings and facilities. I performed routine patrol, traffic direction and crowd control for events. When on duty, I wore a uniform, carried an expandable baton, defensive chemical spray, hand cuffs and a walkie talkie. Additionally, I assisted and performed basic first aid. This was an awesome internship and am grateful to have had this opportunity. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career as an Environmental Conservation Officer. Gaining insight of basic law enforcement methods and techniques was invaluable for my futures goals in additional to my personal and professional development.
