Application process open for safety teen academy

More than 40 teens gain life skills while learning about future careers in law enforcement and fire services June 4-8 at the Scottsdale Public Safety Teen Academy. Scottsdale Police and Fire departments collaborate to offer a total public safety experience, which includes exposure to both police and fire training.

To participate in the Academy, teens (ages 14-18) must submit an application and go through a basic background check.  Due to the high interest in the academy, it is recommended that applications be completed as soon as possible to secure a seat.  The deadline is April 13, 2018. Attendance for the entire academy is required. The application is found by visiting scottsdaleaz.gov and searching “Teen Academy.”

The action-packed week, held each day from 6:30 am-3:30 pm at the Tom Hontz Training Facility (911 N. Stadem Drive, Tempe), features hands-on learning and demonstrations.

Scheduled activities include firefighting skill stations, Hands-only CPR awareness, basic first aid and triage, police riot control techniques, decision shooting scenarios, criminal investigations.  The students also get to view tactical demonstrations by the Police K-9 Unit, Horse Patrol, SWAT and Bike teams.  Teens will also see live fire and crash rescue scenarios up close and personal.

The academy will conclude with a graduation ceremony at 2:30 pm, June 8, at the Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef, Scottsdale.

Teens interested in pursuing a career in public safety are encouraged to apply for Scottsdale Police or Fire Explorer programs that offer year-round training and education.  For additional information, visit www.ScottsdalePD.com or www.ScottsdaleFD.com.