Three UEHS students, Natalia Cole-Root, Bianca Lasky, and Logan Spearbeck, joined Vestal High School students for the summer Youth Police Academy. The two weeks of leadership training and exposure to law enforcement careers provided a comprehensive learning experience, focusing on different fields of law enforcement that provided a well-rounded understanding of the roles and responsibilities these professionals perform in communities.
The visit to the Fred Singer Training facility in Vestal offered valuable observations of fire department personnel training. Witnessing fire department personnel in action, including using the jaws of life and extinguishing a car fire, must have been both educational and thrilling for the cadets.
Learning from Vestal EMS officers about their ambulances and the equipment they use during medical emergencies gave cadets an understanding of emergency medical services and the crucial role they play in saving lives.
The LifeNet medevac helicopter demonstration shed light on the vital role of flight paramedics, flight nurses, and pilots in responding to medical emergencies and transporting patients to specialized care facilities.
Practicing techniques in "Stop the Bleed," such as applying pressure to wounds and using tourniquets, equips the cadets with practical life-saving skills.
The Endicott Bomb Squad introduced cadets to the tools and techniques used in handling suspicious packages and items. The demonstration of "Spot," the semiautonomous robot provided a glimpse into cutting-edge technology in the field of law enforcement.
The NYS Police Crime Scene Investigation Unit's session provided valuable insights into forensic work and fingerprint analysis, allowing them to experience firsthand the process of dusting their own fingerprints.
The discussion with the DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) about their regulatory areas, including mineral resources, environmental concerns, and poaching, highlighted the importance of protecting the environment and enforcing laws related to hazardous waste disposal and illegal activities.
The summer Youth Police Academy is a great opportunity for students to explore the diverse aspects of law enforcement and public safety, while also fostering teamwork and leadership skills. Such initiatives play a vital role in shaping the next generation of responsible and well-informed citizens. Photos courtesy of Regina Felice.
