CAPS — California Accreditation for Public Safety

What is Accreditation?

Accreditation is a voluntary, standards-based process that recognizes public safety agencies for meeting rigorous ethics, efficiency, and community service benchmarks. Through internal assessments and external reviews, agencies align operations with industry best practices.

Accreditation is not merely about checking boxes; it enhances transparency, strengthens credibility, and encourages a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. 

Accreditation is more than a certificate—it's a commitment to excellence in leadership, safety, preparedness, and public trust.

Why Pursue Accreditation?

Accreditation strengthens your agency across every level:

• Accountability & Transparency:
Aligns your agency with proven standards, building public trust through openness and consistency.
• Operational Excellence:
Streamlines procedures, eliminates inefficiencies, and fosters continuous improvement.
• Risk & Legal Protection:
Minimizes liability by ensuring up-to-date policies and clear documentation.
• Grant & Funding Advantage:
Accreditation often improves access to federal/state funding and enhances grant competitiveness.
• Morale & Professionalism:
Demonstrates investment in your team, boosting pride, retention, and recruitment.
• Community Confidence:
Shows your commitment to ethical, high-quality service, strengthening public support.

The Impact of Accreditation

When your agency becomes accredited, you:

• Enhance Professional Credibility: Gain recognition for meeting and maintaining high standards.
• Improve Preparedness: Establish and maintain effective emergency response protocols and training.
• Support Better Decision-Making: Use data-driven practices for more innovative leadership and performance measurement.
• Position Your Agency for the Future: Create a resilient, respected, and adaptable organization ready for tomorrow’s challenges.

Let’s Get Started

Accreditation isn’t just a milestone—it’s a strategic move toward becoming a trusted, effective public safety leader in your community. 

Contact:
Christie Goddard: cgoddard@californiapolicechiefs.org