BUCKHANNON, W.Va. — What does it take to be a police officer? Find out and learn how you can help local law enforcement officers by participating in the upcoming Citizen’s Police Academy starting in March.

The deadline to submit applications is March 1^s, so don’t delay. Pick up your application at Buckhannon City Hall or the Buckhannon Police Department.

Classes will commence on March 13 and continue for nine weeks meeting every Wednesday evening from 6 – 9 p.m. at the Public Safety Complex at 22 S. Florida Street in Buckhannon.

The first five weeks will include Citizen’s Police Academy training and the final four weeks will cover Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) certification. Participants will learn about community policing, communications, the Fusion Center, mapping, vehicle operations, drug awareness, traffic laws, self-defense and much more.

Graduates are also encouraged to join the Buckhannon Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) and CERT team to gain valuable volunteer experience with the department and learn public safety skills and practices.

The Buckhannon Police Department, led by Chief Matt Gregory, employs 11 full-time officers, one part-time officer and one administrative assistant. The department is responsible for community safety, crime prevention, and apprehension of offenders.

The Buckhannon Police Department is currently seeking national accreditation through the CALEA program, which ensures compliance with national regulations and best practices in policing and crime reduction.

In an emergency, call 911. To report a crime via the anonymous tip line, call (304) 473-1001. For assistance or questions, please call (304) 472-5723.

Buckhannon VIPS through the Buckhannon Volunteer Center: https://buckhannonwv.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=363411

Or https://buckhannonwv.org/volunteer and “Click Here to Volunteer” then search for VIPS.