The commissioner of public safety may appoint regional public safety officers to

1. (1) provide an expanded public safety and law enforcement presence in rural areas of the state;
2. (2) provide oversight and training for the village public safety officer program;

3. (3) administer functions relating to

   1. (A) protecting life and property in the rural areas of the state;
   2. (B) conducting investigations;
   3. (C) conducting search and rescue missions;
   4. (D) conducting local training programs in drug and alcohol awareness and prevention, water safety, and gun safety;
4. (4) perform other duties relating to public safety as directed by the commissioner.