The Cobb County Department of Public Safety is opening its doors to residents, offering an up-close look at its multiple divisions with the return of the Citizens Public Safety Academy program for 2025. Starting on May 20, this 16-week course invites local citizens to delve into the organization and functions of departments such as Police, Fire, Animal Services, and 911. The program, which seeks to educate and connect the community with those who protect and serve, is designed to impart a deeper understanding of the inner workings of public safety service delivery, as mentioned on the county's official website.
To be eligible, applicants need to either reside in Cobb County or be employed by Cobb County Government or Schools, with a minimum age requirement of 18. Classes are set to kick off at 6 P.M. at the Public Safety Police Training Academy on the East-West Connector in Austell. Prospective participants must submit an application by May 13, which can be acquired via email or in person at the DPS Training Center. A valid driver’s license, state-issued ID, or U.S. passport is obligatory for the application process and should be presented at the Office of Professional Standards to complete the sign-up.
According to details provided by the Cobb County official announcement, the academy is expected to fill up quickly, suggesting interested individuals act fast. Should the program reach capacity, wait-listed applications will carry over to the 2026 session. The first meeting will involve an introduction to the training staff and feature a presentation from one of the public safety units. Following the first session, classes will take place each Tuesday evening at varied locations within the county's public safety infrastructure.
Academy attendees are promised a mix of encounters ranging from meeting with high-ranking public safety officials to touring the 911 Communications Center. There will also be practical engagements, including demonstrations from the DPS Police Training on weapons and firearms safety, as well as hands-on sessions with the Fire Department Special Operations, covering specialized areas like Hazardous Materials and Heavy Rescue operations. A complete schedule and additional information will be handed out on the initial evening.
For those with queries or seeking further details, contact is encouraged with Sergeant DR Reid, who can be reached at (770) 590-5517, or by email at [email protected].
