Local Youngsters Graduate As Cadets

CHELMSFORD, MA — Dozens of youngsters from Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Wilmington, and Lowell last week graduated from the Youth Public Safety Academy. More than 180 cadets, ages 8-12, graduated Friday at Chelmsford High School.

The cadets learned from members of the Middlesex Sheriff's Office and local police and fire officials. It is the 18th year of the program.

"This program makes a real difference in the lives of Middlesex County families," said Middlesex Sheriff
Peter J. Koutoujian. "Not only do hundreds of youngsters get to have a fun and safe summer experience,
but more importantly they get to know the members of their local police and fire departments who they
come to trust."

The academy is meant as a low-cost educational camp. It runs in six one-week sessions and graduates hundreds of cadets each year. The kids participate in several exerciseincluding fire hazard training in the MSO’s fire safety trailer; team building activities at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Billerica; K9
demonstrations; and more.

The cadets last week were joined by public safety agencies at Cawley Memorial Stadium in Lowell for a look at the vehicles and equipment.

Photos courtesy Middlesex Sheriff's Office