Durham Technical Community College and Durham Emergency Communications Center are hosting classes for telecommunicators. Hostage Negotiations for the Telecommunicator will be taught in an 8-hour class and a 40-hour certification class. Certified instructors assigned to the Durham Police Department's Hostage Negotiations Team will teach both classes.

The 8-hour class is designed specifically for emergency telecommunicators. Instruction consists of lecture and role play designed to teach crisis skills that enhance an emergency telecommunicator's ability to manage such calls as hostage situations and barricaded suspects. Skills learned focus on the seven elements of active listening and how they apply to hostage situations.

The 40-hour certification class includes more detail and provides additional practical exercises for the telecommunicator. Completion of the 8-hour class is required as a prerequisite for the enrolling in the 40-hour class.

Registration fee:

• 8-hour class $50
• 40-hour class $60

Public safety officers, including telecommunicators, are exempt from paying registration fees for these classes.

Classes will meet from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Durham Technical Community College.

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