Often because there are no other public or private agencies available, the public relies upon the department for assistance and advice in the many routine and emergency situations which develop in an urban society. For this reason and because there is frequently a potential for crime, the department regularly responds to incidents where it is not contemplated that an arrest will be made.
Saving lives and aiding the injured, locating lost persons, keeping the peace, and providing for many other miscellaneous needs are basic services provided by the department. To satisfy these requests, the department responds to calls for service and renders such aid or advice as is necessitated or indicated by the situation.