What is the Emergency Services Academy?

The Mineral Wells Police Department and Mineral Wells Fire Department have found that education has been most effective in gaining understanding and support from the community. The Emergency Services Academy offers citizens insights into how police officers perform their duties and how the department serves the community.

Mission of the Academy

The purpose of the Emergency Services Academy is to foster better communication between citizens and first responders through education. The Academy will create a nucleus of well-informed citizens who possess greater insight into police practices and services. Graduates of the Academy can share their knowledge and experiences with the community as the opportunity arises. Everyone benefits from enhancing citizen understanding of the role and function of their police department.

Course Description

Instruction consists of one 2-hour class held each week for a duration of twelve weeks. This instruction is comprehensive, covering a different area of Emergency Services work each week. Certified police officers, FD personnel, supervisors, and civilian instructors with particular expertise will teach each topic. Classes are limited to 25 citizen attendees. All classes are free.

A vital part of the Academy is participation in role-playing and scenarios. These simulations will provide an opportunity for a unique "hands-on" learning experience. Students will also have the option, on a voluntary basis, to ride-a-long with a patrol officer, and on an ambulance.