From the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office, March 6, 2017: Applications are available for youngsters wishing to participate in the 2017 Youth Public Safety Academy, Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian has announced.

Now in its 18th year, the academy provides a safe, educational, low-cost summer camp option for Middlesex County youth. For the first time, the camp will be open to children ages 8-12; in prior years the academy was for youth 9 to 11.

“Each year, YPSA is one of the best programs we are able to offer,” Koutoujian said. “Thanks to our incredible staff and all our partners in law enforcement and the fire services, YPSA is an exciting opportunity for youngsters to learn valuable public safety lessons in a fun-filled environment.”

YPSA is made up of six one-week camps beginning July 10. Transportation and lunch are provided, and a graduation ceremony is held each Friday in Chelmsford.

To learn more about the program and fill out an online application, visit middlesexsheriff.org/ypsa.