The role of the Patrol divides into four main functions: routine patrol, special situations, training and service projects.
The Citizens Patrol is NEVER directly involved in pursuit, detention, apprehension, or arrest of any suspects under any circumstances. Our role is limited to observation and reporting only.
The basic work of the Park Ridge Citizens Patrol is to assist the "beat" police officer. This is accomplished by patrolling the streets of Park Ridge about four nights per week. Hours worked vary from 6:30 p.m. until midnight or until such time as needed by police/fire departments. Normal activity includes a roll-call by the Police Watch Commander. One Patrol member is the Base and operates a radio at Police Headquarters. The other members patrol in each of the designated police areas or "beats". Patrollers communicate information to the Police Department through the patroller operating the Base radio. During this "regular" patrol members may be directed by the Police Department to assist motorists, direct traffic or maintain surveillance. Additionally Patrollers report items requiring public works activity such holes in the street, street lights and traffic signals not working. Patrollers prepare formal reports of their activities and observations at the conclusion of their shift. These reports are retained by the Crime Prevention Office in the Park Ridge Police Department for future reference. Routine Special Training Service
In addition to the regular patrol, those members willing are on call for emergencies at anytime. Members have been called for perimeter protection at fires, floods, downed electrical wires, broken water mains, automobile accidents and the sites of major crimes. When the west side of the city was flooded in 1986 and 1987, the Patrol assisted for several days at a time helping to prevent looting and monitor residents and residences.
We have also been asked to provide crowd and traffic control at events sponsored by local organizations such as the Charity Classic runners marathon, the Fourth of July parade and the Christmas celebration sponsored by local merchants. Routine Special Training Service
Each member commits to routine training provided
at monthly meetings. Instruction is received from Park Ridge
Police Department personnel and guest personnel from other law
enforcement agencies in all areas of police work including
observation techniques, reporting, traffic patterns, radio usage,
public works, gangs, evidence techniques, local criminal patters
and the criminal justice system. Patrol members also participate
in police and fire department emergency preparedness drills.
Routine
Special
Training
Service Service Projects
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