BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- As part of a big recruitment push, people got a unique chance to see the Binghamton Police Department at work during an open house Monday.

The captain says he's excited about the turnout, and hopes more people apply before the deadline. 

There's just a few days left to sign up for the Binghamton Police test.

Captain Larry Hendrickson says it's been difficult to hire police officers, and they are currently below staff.

He says it's a fulfilling career, which is why one visitor told Spectrum News he hopes to pass the test. 

"I think that people have a bad image of the police in some circumstances nowadays," said Breven Gilmore, a Greene resident. "I want to be part of that movement to help make a difference."

"We train our officers to the highest levels to make them as safe as possible," said Hendrickson. "It's still a safe job, it's a very good job, it's a rewarding job. It's a job I say over and over again: you can help your community."

The application is due this Friday at Binghamton City Hall.