Centre, AL, January 3, 2025 – The Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency is proud to announce the launch of the 2025 Inaugural Cherokee County Citizen’s Public Safety Academy (CPSA), a groundbreaking initiative designed to educate residents about public safety operations and empower them to contribute to a safer, more resilient community. The program will kick off on Wednesday March 12, 2025 at 6PM. The academy will be for one night each month with the last night of the academy (Graduation) on September 10, 2025.
The Citizen’s Public Safety Academy offers a unique opportunity for participants to gain firsthand knowledge of the critical functions performed by local law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, rescue services and the Cherokee County
Emergency Management Agency. This interactive program will include classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on activities to help residents better understand the complexities of public safety operations.
Why Does Public Safety Awareness Matter?
Public safety professionals work tirelessly to protect the community, but their efforts are most effective when citizens are informed and engaged. By fostering a deeper understanding of emergency response processes, the CPSA aims to :
- Strengthen trust and communication between public safety agencies and the community.
- Equip citizens with practical knowledge to respond effectively during emergencies.
- Build a network of informed community members who can assist in fostering a culture of safety and preparedness.
Understanding Emergency Management and Community Resilience.
The Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and preparedness of the community during emergencies. It is responsible for coordinating and managing efforts across preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation phases of emergency management. During the academy, participants will gain in-depth insights into the EMA’s responsibilities and the wide range of functions involved in managing emergencies. These include:
- Firefighting Services
- Police Services
- Medical and Health Services
- Rescue Services
- Engineering
- Public Information and Notification Services
- Communications
- Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive Weapons of Mass Destruction
- Evacuation of persons from stricken areas
- Emergency Welfare Services
- Emergency Transportation
- Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Temporary Restoration of Public Utility Services along with all Other functions related to Civilian Protection
Other topics include:
- Developing and implementing emergency response plans: Crafting actionable strategies to address potential hazards effectively.
- Coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies during emergencies: Ensuring seamless communication and collaboration for efficient response efforts.
- Promoting public education on emergency preparedness: Empowering citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to stay safe.
The academy will place a strong emphasis on community resilience, a cornerstone of effective emergency management. Resilience enables communities to withstand, adapt to, and recover from challenges such as natural disasters, public health crises, and other emergencies.
Participants will learn practical steps to enhance both personal and collective resilience, including:
- Creating emergency preparedness kits.
- Developing family communication plans.
- Staying informed about local hazards.
- Developing an understanding of important aspects of emergency response.
By fostering awareness and preparedness, the academy aims to equip citizens with the tools they need to support their families and neighbors while contributing to the overall safety and resilience of Cherokee County.
How to Join the Citizen’s Public Safety Academy?
The CPSA is open to Cherokee County residents aged 18 and older. Space is limited to 30 people per academy session. Interested participants are encouraged to apply early. Applications can be made by clicking on the following link https://forms.gle/fGXCjFJJwYcMkDP86. Applications must be submitted by close of business (4PM) on January 31, 2025. For more information about the Citizen’s Public Safety Academy or to request an application, please contact the Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency at 256-927-3367.
“This academy is about more than just education—it’s about building stronger connections between public safety agencies and the citizens they serve,” said Director Rogers. “Together, we can create a community that is not only safe but also resilient in the face of challenges.
