In the hours ahead, the Ranger directing the search and rescue mission may call upon additional Rangers, police, rescue organization members and even local citizens for assistance. This teamwork, together with the Forest Rangers' training and experience, can usually be counted on to bring such a mission to a successful conclusion. A part of the Basic Training Academy includes instruction in dealing with law enforcement activities and court procedures. Mandatory training in the use of force will be required before the new Ranger can be issued a service pistol. Each year the wildfire prevention program brings Rangers into elementary schools, nursery schools and Head Start centers where amazed youngsters greet a visitor in the familiar likeness of Smokey the Bear.
Rangers also meet older students in classrooms and at conservation field days.
They try to show youngsters how to use and enjoy the outdoors in a safe and proper manner. At other times Rangers can be found constructing and staffing displays at county fairs, or participating in parades and other exhibitions all over the State. These days the duties of a Ranger are wide in range and complexity. Forest Rangers are presently involved in 27 different programs of the Department of Environmental Conservation. Although this kind of diversity can bring scheduling problems, Rangers generally cite the variety in their jobs as one of the things they cherish most, along with the latitude they are given to accomplish their tasks and help people.