WATERVILLE — Delta Ambulance has launched a free Citizens Academy, a hands-on opportunity for residents of the community to learn many different aspects of the skills utilized by Delta Ambulance Paramedics and EMTs.

This academy is designed for people who are interested in learning more about emergency medical services.

The academy provides hands-on training, one evening per week, from 6 to 8 p.m. for eight weeks, starting Oct. 2, at the Waterville Delta Headquarters, Chase Avenue. Instructors will demonstrate the skills of EMS crews. Participants can, with guidance, attempt a variety of EMT skills using mannequins for the purpose of understanding the role of the EMS professional.

Participants will use the training they have received in the final session where they will treat a simulated patient in a mock patient-care scenario.

After CPR and AED (automatic external defibrillator) training, academy participants will have the opportunity to ride along with a Delta Ambulance crew. A variety of daytime shifts are available.

Academy topics include Introduction to Delta Ambulance; ambulance equipment; airway, respiratory emergencies; medical emergencies, pharmacology, IV’s; cardiology, defibrillation, reading heart rhythms; traumatic emergencies, emergency childbirth; disaster preparedness; CPR & AED training; putting everything together, code drills, academy ride-time.

Graduates will receive CPR/AED training and a greater understanding of emergency medical services.

There is no cost to attend. To register, visit DeltaAmbulance.org, call 861-4246 or mail Delta Ambulance Citizens Academy, 29 Chase Ave., Waterville, ME 04901.