In an effort to keep local communities safe during potentially life-threatening circumstances, the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office teamed up with other local departments to offer residents active shooter training awareness classes.

Saturday's 2-hour class was broken down into two parts; the first featured a member of the Sheriff's Office focusing on what to do in the event of an emergency.

The second part involved a member of the county's Department of Behavioral and Community Health, breaking down steps you can take if you or someone else is injured and not able to immediately access emergency services.

The classes are geared toward increasing awareness and providing guidance on what can be done if presented with an active shooter situation.

For more information on future classes, call 845-486-3870 or email dcsotraining@dutchessny.gov.