As we continue talking about dangerous jobs, protective service occupations are very hazardous. The middle word, service, is just that. Men and women in law enforcement are there to serve the public 24-7. Fatalities in their professions are high, with homicide being the leading cause, followed by highway crashes.
Television shows that depict the many types of law enforcement are popular for a reason. There’s just something about the thrill of the chase that catches our attention, whether in real life, on the news, or a television program. When we hear a siren, most of us are curious as to what it’s all about. If you are looking for an exciting career, there are many types from which to choose:
- Police Officer
- Undercover Officer
- Border Patrol
- Drug Enforcement Agency
- F.B.I.
- Customs Service
- Secret Service
- Security Officer
- SWAT Team
- Border Patrol
- U.S. Forest Service
- Parole Officer
- Prison Guard
- Sheriff
- Air Marshal
- Departments of Public Service (Highway Patrol)
There have been almost 800 violent assaults against Border Patrol agents in the last year, an increase of 108% from the year before. Being a Federal Park Ranger has become one of the most hazardous jobs in law enforcement. Since September 11, 2001, rangers have shifted their focus to drug smugglers and other fugitives. They are 15 times more likely to be killed in the line of duty than a DEA agent. Two of the most dangerous parks (among the top ten list of dangerous parks in our country, according to the US Park Ranger Fraternal Order of Police) are Amistad National Recreation Area, near Del Rio, Texas, and Big Bend National Park, also located in Texas. There are so few people and too many miles to patrol for criminals bringing in loads of drugs, as well as illegal aliens, which makes it difficult for law enforcement.
We owe a big debt of gratitude to the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities and our country.