APCO Institute’s General Illuminations program is an annual subscription-based service that allows you to obtain topic-specific, at-your-desk continuing education. The program is open to anyone in the public safety communications industry. Subscribers earn one CDE for each monthly course completed.
2024 Topics Include:
January: | Federal Agencies and How they Support Local Public Safety The U.S. Federal Government has many federal agencies with acronyms or initialisms, such as FBI, DEA, ATF, NPS, CBP, ICE, and USCG. This session defines the alphabet’s initials, explains the agencies’ typical duties and responsibilities, and identifies how these federal agencies commonly support local and state public safety entities. |
February: | Practicing Self Care: Learning to set healthy boundaries to reduce stress is one of the most important duties you have as a telecommunicator We’ve all heard the cabin crew on a flight say, “In the event of a loss of pressure, place your mask on first, then help others.” The same principle applies to helping others in emergencies. You cannot help anybody if your stress levels are off the charts. Setting boundaries to reduce stress by saying “no” protects your time, energy, and well-being. Taking care of yourself first should be a priority. |
March: | Sexual Predator Hunter Sometimes also known as child exploitation vigilante groups, sexual predator hunters conduct online investigations to expose and confront individuals believed to be involved in inappropriate or illegal activities with minors. This session examines how the hunter interacts with suspected predators and the potential dangers of confrontation. |
April: | Creating a Checklist for the Console Just as police, fire, and EMS check their vehicles and equipment before heading out to protect the community, dispatchers must also sign on for duty and prepare their consoles. Preparing a checklist can help to start your day on a positive note. |
May: | What is CIT? Many law enforcement agencies have implemented Crisis Intervention Training. This session explains the purpose and use of these teams and how the PST can benefit from the strategies utilized. |
June: | Creating shared understandings with the autism community What does “Being on the Spectrum Mean to You?” Did you know people with an autism spectrum disorder are seven to twelve times more likely to have contact with police? The information you gather initially can help responders to identify characteristics and guide a positive outcome. |
July: | Boating Incidents Summer months find many people outside on the water . Experienced and inexperienced boaters alike can fall victim to accidents. During this session you’ll explore common types of boating incidents, including capsizing, sinking, grounding, propeller accident, person overboard, and crashes. |
August: | The Toxic Workplace Lack of communication and empathy and subtle or overt bullying can contribute to a toxic workplace that makes it hard for employees to succeed. Learn how to recognize and address these issues to improve your work environment. |
September: | Decision-Making Skills Accurate and timely call handling requires active listening, crisis assessment abilities, problem-solving skills, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication. Ways to enhance these skills are identified in this session. |
October: | The PST’s Role in an Active Shooter Incident The PST is responsible for gathering and relaying crucial and often confusing or conflicting information during an active shooter incident. In addition, the PST provides guidance, instruction, and emotional support to callers in danger while coordinating responder resources. These roles and responsibilities are examined in this session. |
November: | Fire in Multi-Residential structure A fire in a structure with multiple residential occupants, such as an apartment building, hotel, or assisted living facility is challenging for firefighters. This session identifies common causes of these fires, fire suppression/extinguishing systems, and occupant evacuation strategies. |
December: | Welfare checks Welfare checks are typically routine safety/wellness checks conducted by law enforcement, usually requested by a family member or friend. Explore the unexpected dangers of these checks, to both the occupant and law enforcement responders. |
COST: Annual Subscription (per student):
(No refunds, transfers, or substitutions allowed for this program)
Options | Price |
---|---|
Non-Member | $145 |
APCO Member | $125 |
Group of 26-50 registrants | $115 per person |
Group of 51 and up registrants | $105 per person |
APCO Institute is committed to bringing you affordable, quality training and education. Please take the opportunity to try out this new learning medium and invite a co-worker or two to join you!