Youth Public Safety Academy

Ten years ago Middlesex Sheriff James V. DiPaola launched a bold idea - a free Youth Public Safety Academy to teach 9, 10 and 11year old children about public safety.

To build up their confidence and team work and focus on the duties and responsibilities of law enforcement personnel in the hopes of establishing respect and trust between those children and professionals. The Youth Public Safety Academy is a week-long program offered at no cost to residents of the selected communities. Transportation, lunch and all activities are provided by the Middlesex Sheriff's Office in conjunction with the local communities Police, Fire and Emergency Services personnel.

During each week, local police officers, firefighters and EMT's work with the cadets to show them the importance of public safety; how to act in the event of a fire or an emergency situation; and the role they can play in making their homes, schools and communities safer.

Activities each week include K-9 demonstrations, fire safety house demonstrations, fingerprinting program, police and fire department tours, and a teamwork, self-confidence course at the Billerica Boys and Girls club. Each week ends with a graduation ceremony where cadets receive their diplomas from Sheriff DiPaola and local officials.

For more information contact: