Local Children Graduate From Police Kid’s Safety Academy

Twenty-four local children graduated from the Pasadena Police Department’s Kid’s Safety Academy, completing a five-week program designed to teach safety skills to youngsters ages 6 to 12.

The interactive after-school program began April 15 at Victory Park Recreation Center and provided instruction on 911 calls, basic first aid response and pedestrian safety. Classes were taught by Pasadena police officers, dispatchers, firefighters and other city department personnel.

“To keep our community prepared, classes such as these provide youth and their families with the tools needed to stay safe and healthy,” said Police Chief Eugene Harris, who announced the Kid’s Safety Academy program.

The academy was coordinated by Community Services Officer Hilda Jurado and sponsored by the Pasadena Police Foundation. Graduates walked across the stage, received certificates and posed for photographs with Chief Harris and command staff.

The program represents one of several youth education initiatives operated by the Pasadena Police Department. Other offerings include the Police Activities League, Explorer Program and Junior Public Safety Academy, all designed to teach life skills and safety measures to local children.

The Kid’s Safety Academy targets elementary school-age children with hands-on instruction from first responders. The curriculum covers how to properly contact 911, basic medical response techniques and safe practices for walking and crossing streets.

Parents and children interested in the department’s youth programs can contact Program Coordinator Susana Porras at susanaporras@cityofpasadena.net for enrollment information and scheduling details.