Police Departments all over have started embracing something they call "National Night Out." The program came about to help communities develop positive relationships with local police officers. We have a connection with a police officer in the little beach town of Manasquan, NJ and decided to attend their event.
I'm not sure yet if this is the same date every year-- but this year the event was in early August and it was UNREASONABLY HOT which made it a bit harder to enjoy-- but with that included, the event was STILL a hit with my little guy.
Each department plans their own activities, so I would check and see what they are doing in your town or in towns nearby. Manasquan had a huge selection of township trucks and emergency vehicles so kids could touch them, climb up into the seats and even turn on the sirens in cop cars. HUGE HIT for the under 8 crowd. If your little one is like mine, we stand outside to watch the garbage truck do it's thing in the morning and can't walk by a construction vehicle without stopping for a bit. There was no way we were going to miss the opportunity to get up close!
All emergency responders were included in the event... and I loved how they also had the life guards there with their iconic stands and jet skis. Kids climbed into ambulances, sat in the driver seat of fire trucks and marveled at the huge wheels of construction vehicles. Staff were present at each truck to answer questions and chat with the kids. They were fantastic. You could see how each department loved showing the equipment to the kids. I was impressed that everyone was so kind, patient and fun in the heat-- but I think that just showed how these individuals were committed to a great event for the community they care about.
In addition to the trucks, there were games, music and food. We didn't linger too long after we checked out all the vehicles though-- because we were melting. If it's not too hot next year, we'll be back! I expect that my little dude will enjoy this for years to come!
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