Citizens Academy now accepting applications

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – The Indy Public Safety Foundation is now accepting applications for its third class of the Department of Public Safety Citizens Academy.

The 10 week course is free and will be held on Thursdays starting September 10 through November 19 from 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at various DPS agency locations.

Applications are due by Monday, August 31 and there are only 40 seats available. Participants will be selected on a first come, first serve basis.

24-Hour News 8 was able to get a sneak peak at what participants will learn.

Paramedics with the Indianapolis EMS simulated saving someone’s life using Narcan, a drug used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose. It’s commonly used to help revive someone who has overdosed on heroin.

Carl Rochelle, spokesman for Indianapolis EMS, said, “”Well [Citizens Academy] helps make it easier as we respond as we’re on scene if they’re actually having an emergency as we arrive it makes them a little more familiar with what we’re doing. If they’re not having an emergency, if they’re a bystander, it helps them to be able to participate at a citizen level or a first responder level aiding us at our job.”

In addition to learning about the job of a paramedic, Citizens Academy participants will also have a behind the scenes look into the lives of firefighters.

Dane Nutty, executive director for the Indy Public Safety Foundation, said, “It’s really eye opening. It’s kind of an aha moment.”

Nutty said the goal of the academy is to raise awareness and bridge the gap in the relationship between the community and the  Department of Public Safety agencies.

“The burden of public safety doesn’t rely just solely on the first responders each day,” Nutty said.

Click here for more information about the Citizens Academy, including how to register.