The Sikeston, MO, Department of Public Safety discovered the benefits of combining their local fire and police agencies after passage of a city council ordinance in 1976. A key component was that members of both divisions receive cross training in both disciplines and continuously enhance their skills. Community support was stated to be critical to the success of this type of initiative. The experience in Sikeston has shown that the public safety concept works, and 30 years of this configuration has provided tangible results, efficiencies, and a perspective to evaluate the department’s operations. Examples provided include increased regionalization with other police and fire agencies; establishment of a homeland security team and bomb squad; increased liaison and improved working relationships with other State and Federal agencies; improved morale through officer rotation; and managers with backgrounds in both disciplines. The commitment by Sikeston to this concept has also resulted in higher pay for employees, along with exceptional training, professionalism, and opportunity. 3 notes