Sign Up To Go ‘Behind-the-Scenes’ Of The Missouri City Police And Fire Departments

Missouri City’s Citizens’ Police & Fire Academy begins April 12 and offers a “behind-the-scenes” view of what firefighters and police officers face on the job. The free, six-week program is open to residents and the deadline to register is April 8. Classes will be held from 7-10 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Missouri City Public Safety Headquarters, 3849 Cartwright Rd.

Graduates of the 2010 academy gather for a class portrait with city officials.

“The academy is a perfect opportunity for the citizens of Missouri City to learn more about the daily operations of the police department and fire and rescue Services, including the different types of crimes officers are confronted with on a daily basis and how policemen and firefighters are trained,” said Dan Flagg, community liaison officer.  “They will experience searching a building for an armed suspect, making a traffic stop at night, and many other hands-on activities.”

Participants receive instruction in traffic laws and criminal law. Their training also includes lessons in a firearms training simulator, a motor vehicle extrication using the jaws-of-life, the principles of CPR, a live fire demonstration, and much more.  There will be a staged SWAT operation, a Dive Rescue Team demonstration, traffic stops, building searches, and crime scene investigations.  In 2010, 18 residents graduated from the academy and received certificates at a dinner in their honor.

“There is no better way for our citizens to get engaged with the public safety professionals here,” said Curtis Campbell, emergency management coordinator.  “This interaction allows for an in-depth look into both departments and their functions, not to mention the once in lifetime opportunity to participate in this type of behind-the-scenes experience.”

Applications are available at Public Safety Headquarters or on the city’s website by clicking on the “For Residents” tab, selecting “Forms and Applications” and scrolling down to “Citizens Police & Fire Academy Application.”  Applicants must be at least 18 years old and either live or work in Missouri City.  After completing the academy, members will be eligible to join the Missouri City Police & Fire Auxiliary and/or the Citizen’s Response Team.

For more information, call Flagg at 281-403-8705.