Local residents will have a prime opportunity to learn about the internal workings of the 911 emergency dispatch center during the next 911 Citizen’s Academy March 31.

The academy hosted by the King County Sheriff’s Office will educate citizens about the role 911 communications specialists play in the public safety system and prepare them should they need to dial 911.

The all-day class includes information on the history of 911, call-taking and police dispatching, training program, King County geography, agency partnerships, citizen training and what the academy accreditation process means to participants.

In addition to the classroom session, academy participants will spend two, two-hours sessions with an on-duty communications specialist. The “sit-along” time will offer 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 Friday, March 9.

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