Local residents have an opportunity to learn about the internal workings of the emergency dispatch center with the next 911 Citizen’s Academy on March 31.

The academy educates citizens about the role 911 communications specialists play in the public safety system and how to prepare them should they ever need to dial 911.

The all-day class includes information on the history of 911, call-taking and police dispatching, its training program, King County geography, agency partnerships, citizen training, and what the CALEA Accreditation process means for citizens.

In addition to the classroom session, academy participants spend two two-hour sessions with an on-duty communications specialist. The “sit-along” time offers a practical demonstration of the lessons learned in the academy.

The academy is open to anyone at least 18 years old with no felony convictions. Applicants must live or work in King County.

Applications to attend are now being accepted. Space is limited and completed applications should be turned in as soon as possible. The application deadline is March 9.

Applications are available on the King County Sheriff’s Office website.. You can also request the applications by calling 206-205-6625, or by sending an email request to: KCSO911FB@kingcounty.gov