Academy to focus on local law enforcement, fire, and EMS roles
McHenry, MD – Garrett College, supported by a Maryland Two Fifty Commission grant, is accepting applications for the Garrett County Citizens Academy.
The Citizens Academy is designed to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of the history, responsibilities, and essential roles of law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS) throughout Garrett County. The Maryland Two Fifty Commission’s goal is to support local 250 commissions and committees throughout the state in developing memorable and unique commemorative activities for the United States’ 250th anniversary.
“I see this as a chance to create something that will have a lasting impact on our community,” said Chris Nichols, a former chair of the Garrett County EMS Board and one of the leaders of the Citizens Academy project. “When I alerted Garrett College to this opportunity, I was excited that they also recognized the value in making this happen.
“I’m looking forward to seeing this inaugural Citizens Academy bring our county together and raise awareness of a vital but often taken-for-granted public service,” added Nichols.
The Academy is limited to 20 participants, who must be at least 18 years old. Individuals must complete the application (www.garrettcollege.edu/citizens-academy) and have transportation to attend the sessions at various sites in Garrett County.
Josh Hook, Garrett College’s Paramedic Program director and lead instructor, said participants “will gain a greater appreciation for the dedication, coordination, and expertise required to keep our communities safe, protect lives, and create a positive environment for residents and visitors.”
The Academy, which will run for five consecutive weeks starting September 14, will focus on a different topic each week, facilitated by Garrett County officials and industry experts, with dates, times, locations, topics listed below:
September 14 (6-8 p.m., GIEC 103, Garrett College): History of Public Safety, Fire, and EMS in Garrett County and Stop the Bleed.
September 21 (6-8 p.m., Garrett County Detention Center): Public Safety Tour of Garrett County Detention Center.
September 28 (6-8 p.m., Beitzel Career Technology Training Center in Accident): Training and Education.
October 5 (6-9 p.m., Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Department and Garrett County Emergency Operations Center): Fire and EMS Equipment and Resources and Garrett County Emergency Operations Center.
October 12 (6-8 p.m., GIEC 111, Garrett College): The Future of Public Safety, Fire, and EMS in Garrett County.
