The Craig Police Department was thrilled to welcome a group of enthusiastic 2nd graders from Sandrock Elementary school for a fun-filled field trip to the Public Safety Center today. As part of their visit, the young students were given a unique opportunity to take part in a special swearing-in ceremony. The youngsters raised their right hands and repeated the oath, promising to be good citizens and help keep their community safe. Lieutenant Fandel and Spiderman himself then presented each of them with a special badge, commemorating their new status as "Junior Police Officers." The kids then spent their morning learning about the diverse roles in the world of law enforcement and the value they each contribute to making their community a better place.

The students gathered around as a Craig Police Department K9 Officer Laehr introduced them to his specially trained canine partner, Bane. The kids were fascinated as they watched Bane demonstrate his skills and were enthusiastic to learned about how his strong sense of smell assists law enforcement in keeping our streets safe. Animal Control Officer Murray educated students about animal safety. Her presentation covered essential topics such as how to approach dogs safely, what to do if they encounter a stray animal, and the importance of reporting any animal-related incidents to a trusted adult. The officer also emphasized the significance of treating all animals with kindness and respect.

The students also had the opportunity to learn the art of collecting fingerprint evidence by seasoned investigative detectives. This hands-on activity aimed to foster an understanding of forensic science and its significance in solving crimes. The young students were taught the proper techniques for collecting and preserving fingerprints. They learned about the importance of dusting for prints, using specialized powders, and lifting latent prints. The detectives also explained the role of fingerprints in investigations, highlighting their value in identifying individuals and solving crimes.

The 2nd graders then took a trip down to the Colorado State Patrol Dispatch Center located in the Public Safety Center, and had the opportunity to learn about the vital role dispatchers play in keeping our community safe. The students learned how crucial the dispatchers' ability to handle emergency calls and coordinate responses with first responders is during emergency situations. The dispatch team helped the students understand the importance of staying calm in emergency situations, they also emphasized the significance of knowing their home address, as this vital information helps emergency responders quickly locate those in need. 

The fieldtrip served as a great example of community outreach and educational enrichment, promoting a better understanding of law enforcement's role in maintaining public safety. By inspiring young minds and fostering a sense of curiosity, we can encourage them to explore the diverse careers available in law enforcement and its related fields, potentially inspiring the next generation of public servants.