COLUMBUS–The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is taking measures to train the public to combat violence in places of worship.

The training will occur at three churches over the next few months and is designed to educate the public on current trends, to identify security issues and look at methods to counter an attack should it occur during times of worship.

The training will feature a presentation designed by the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association with the curriculum delivered by certified and qualified instructors, Polk County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Lowell Griffin said.

“Officers with experience in tactical environments will be available to address concerns that the attendees may have,” Griffin said.

The training begins Feb. 27 at the Green Creek First Baptist Church, located at 534 Coxe Rd., Columbus with another training on March 13 at Silver Creek Baptist Church, located at 4391 Silver Creek Rd., Mill Spring. The last training is scheduled for April 17 at Columbus Baptist Church, located at 45 Houston Rd., Columbus.

All training begins at 7 p.m.