(04/18/06) FAIRFIELD ? Fairfield residents are learning what it takes to fight crime during an intense Citizens Police Academy course.

In addition to learning about police procedures, many of the pupils are also learning to face their fears. Some trainees conquered their fear of firearms by squeezing off a few rounds at the target range. Students will get hands-on training and classroom instruction during the10-week course.

Those taking part in the course also ride along with officers on patrol.