In the role of a PSO, which activity are you NOT permitted to engage in?

In the role of a PSO (Public Safety Officer), it is not permissible to identify oneself as a police officer. This is important because misrepresenting one's authority can lead to significant legal consequences and undermine the credibility of law enforcement and public safety operations. Public Safety Officers are typically tasked with supporting law enforcement and maintaining safety, but they do not possess the same legal authority or powers as fully sworn police officers.

Identifying as a police officer can create confusion and mislead the public regarding the scope of one's authority. PSOs are trained to perform specific duties, such as providing first aid, briefly detaining a subject when necessary, and serving as the eyes and ears of the Federal Protective Service (FPS), but they must do so within the limits of their roles and without misrepresenting their capabilities. It is crucial for PSOs to maintain clarity about their functions to foster trust and maintain proper protocol within the public safety framework.