Want to know more about law enforcement in Highline or learn how to help out in a community emergency?

The Burien and SeaTac police departments are offering two courses for interested citizens.

The Citizen's Police Academy begins March 17, while Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training starts March 11.

To apply or for more information on the citizen's academy, Burien residents may contact Community Service Officer Nicki Maraulja at 206-296-3333 or nicki.maraulja@kingcounty.gov. The SeaTac contact person is Community Service Officer Eloise Kruger at 206-973-4915 or ekruger@ci.seatac.wa.us.

For CERT training, applicants should contact SeaTac Community Service Officer Mechee Burnett at 206-973-4917 or mechee.burnett@kingcounty.gov.

A thorough background check is conducted on applicants for both programs.

According to police officials, graduates of the free citizen's academy will gain a better understanding of law enforcement's role in the criminal justice system and an appreciation for the many challenges facing law enforcement in today's complex society.

The graduates will also be better able to assist officers in improving their neighborhoods and communities, the officials noted.
Classes for the academy are Wednesday nights, 6-9 p.m., for 11 weeks at the state Criminal Justice Training Center, 19010 1st Ave. S. in Burien.

Those who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion and a photo with police staff.

Instructors promise presentations by King County Sheriff's Office units, several hands-on experiences and a King County Communications center field trip.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency began promoting nationwide use of the community emergency response team concept in 1994.

The goal is for emergency personnel to train neighborhood residents, community organization members and employees in basic emergency response skills. CERT members are then integrated into emergency response efforts for their area.

Some of the sessions require physical participation while others are primarily lectures. Instructors emphasize that participants must be physically fit enough to engage in strenuous activities, such as lifting and carrying.

There is a $35 fee for the course with food and selected supplies provided for students at no charge.