Brookfield Zoo, located in the heart of Illinois, is home to over 2.2 million visitors each year and a diverse collection of over 500 animal species. Responsible for maintaining the safety and security of this dynamic environment is the Brookfield Zoo Police Department, led by Sgt. Lee Zeitlin, a seasoned law enforcement officer with over 40 years of experience at the zoo.
Unique Challenges of the Brookfield Zoo Police Chief
The Brookfield Zoo presents a unique set of challenges for its police chief, who must navigate a complex environment that includes a large number of visitors, diverse animal species, and a variety of events and activities.
Ensuring Safety and Security
One of the primary responsibilities of the Brookfield Zoo Police Chief is to ensure the safety and security of the zoo’s guests, staff, and animals. This involves responding to emergencies, managing crowds, and addressing potential threats, all while maintaining a high level of customer service.
Coordination with External Agencies
The police chief must also coordinate with external agencies, such as state police forces and highway patrols, to ensure the safe transfer of animals and manage large-scale events. This requires a deep understanding of the zoo’s operations and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of stakeholders.
Specialized Policing Strategies
To address the unique challenges of the Brookfield Zoo, the police department has developed a range of specialized strategies and equipment.
Trained Police Officers
The zoo’s police department consists of nine full-time police officers who are also trained as emergency medical technicians (EMTs). This ensures that they are equipped to handle medical emergencies and provide a high level of care to both visitors and animals.
Specialized Equipment
The department has its own police cars, ambulance, and bicycle patrol, which allows them to respond quickly and effectively to various situations within the zoo’s expansive grounds.
Collaboration with Staff
The police chief works closely with the zoo’s staff to ensure that they are aware of and prepared for potential situations, such as animal escapes or medical emergencies. This collaboration helps to minimize risks and ensure efficient responses.
Emergency Protocols
The department has established protocols for various emergency situations, including the safe transfer of animals and the response to lost children. These protocols help to ensure that the zoo is prepared for any eventuality and can respond quickly and effectively.
Key Statistics and Details
- Number of Police Officers: 9 full-time police officers/EMTs and several part-time officers.
- Annual Visitors: Over 2.2 million visitors each year.
- Animal Species: Over 500 species of animals, totaling more than 3,500 animals.
- Police Cars and Ambulance: The department has its own police cars and ambulance.
- Bicycle Patrol: The department uses bicycle patrols to respond quickly to situations within the zoo.
Conclusion
The Brookfield Zoo Police Chief plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of the zoo’s guests, staff, and animals. Through specialized training, equipment, and emergency protocols, the department is able to effectively navigate the unique challenges of this dynamic environment and provide a high level of customer service to all who visit the zoo.