CITIZEN'S TRAINING
Sentinel Program
The Sentinel Program of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is a proactive initiative designed to enhance the security of places of worship. This will be accomplished by empowering congregations with the knowledge of effective safety measures.
The 80-hour program includes 64 hours of training across the span of eight days as well as 16 hours of firearms training. All of the program’s expenses are covered by the $250 fee. More information on the program can be found by going to this link below:
Sentinel - Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
​
CITIZEN'S FIREARMS
CLASSES ARE BACK - 20 Seats per class
​
September 6, 2025 - 8 am to 11 am
September 6, 2025 - 12 pm to 3 pm
September 20, 2025 - 8 am to 11 am
September 20, 2025 - 12 pm to 3 pm
October 11, 2025 - 8 am to 11 am
October 11, 2025 - 12 pm to 3 pm
October 25, 2025 - 8 am to 11 am
October 25, 2025 - 12 pm to 3 pm
CONTACT THE ACADEMY (205-849-5246) TO PUT YOUR NAME ON THE LIST FOR THE TRAINING.
​
​
Jefferson County was the first Sheriff's Office in the state to offer a free handgun safety class to citizens.
​
The class covers safety, various types of handguns, their different operating systems, how they function, and which type of handgun may best suit the citizen. The classroom will include instruction in the basics of handgun marksmanship.
In addition to these subjects, legal issues regarding the carrying of a concealed weapon are also covered. The classroom portion of the class is interactive, with a question-and-answer period, where citizens can ask about anything pertaining to firearms. After the classroom portion is taught, students have the opportunity to shoot their handguns on the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office outdoor range.
Students will be under the supervision of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office instructors, who are available to coach, answer questions, and maintain a safe environment during all phases of range shooting. Students may bring their handguns or borrow one from the Training Center, and are encouraged to try out different types of handguns. Students attending the class are required to bring ammunition for their handgun, or if borrowing a handgun from the Training Center, 9mm or .38 Special ammunition to use in these.
(FACTORY NEW AMMUNITION FOR CLASS-NO RELOADS)
*** NOTE: YOU CANNOT PURCHASE AMMUNITION FROM THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE***
Requirements:
· Valid State ID
· 18 years old or older- a legal guardian must accompany anyone under 18 years of age
· Provide your ammo (you decide how much you want to shoot)
Two classes will be held, with the times being 0800-1100 for the morning class and 1200-1500 for the afternoon class. You will also need a hat with a bill. Students can expect approximately 2 hours of classroom time, with a 1-hour range time. Eye and ear protection will be provided if needed by the student.
The class is free; however, you must pre-register. Class size is limited.
Contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Training Center at 205-849-5246 to make a reservation.


