Special to Iredell Free News
The City of Statesville is accepting applications for the 2024 Public Safety Academy.
This is the first time the Statesville Police Department and Statesville Fire Department have joined forces to offer this comprehensive program, which builds upon the success of the previous Police Academy.
The academy is set to begin on April 11 and run through June 9, concluding with a graduation ceremony. Sessions will be held every Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. at different locations with SPD and SFD staff taking turns leading each class.
Designed to deepen community understanding of public safety services provided by the City of Statesville, the academy also offers participants the opportunity to provide valuable feedback, contributing to ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery to the community.
The inaugural academy is limited to 25 participants. Organizers encourage those who interested in participating to turn their applications in early.
Police-related topics include administration, patrol, recruiting and training, communications, crime analysis/mapping, community services, School Resource Officers, traffic, criminal investigations, evidence, violent crimes, Special Response Team (SRT), K-9, Crime Reduction Team, drone and camera technology.
Fire-related topics include administration, operations and training, code enforcement, fire investigations, fire education and life safety, CPR/AED hands-on training and information, live fire and extinguisher training, hazmat operations, drone operations, fire rescue (ropes, extrication, confined space), ladder operations, airport rescue firefighting, other specialized fire response demonstrations.
Applicants must meet specific criteria to be eligible for the academy, including being 18 years of age prior to the first meeting, agreeing to sign a waiver, residing in Iredell County (with preference given to residents of Statesville), and undergoing a criminal history background check.
This inaugural program promises to provide invaluable insights into the vital work of the SPD and SFD, while also opening doors for participants to explore potential career paths.
Applications can be obtained from the City of Statesville website – www.statesvillenc.net — or by contacting the Police Department (704-878-3442) or Fire Department (704-832-3878). Applications must be received by April 5 for consideration.