OCEAN CITY, Md. - Flashing lights, sounding sirens and plenty of smiles filled Northside Park on Tuesday as hundreds of families gathered for Ocean City's National Night Out, an annual event focused on strengthening relationships between the community and local first responders.
The event gave residents the opportunity to meet police officers, firefighters and emergency medical personnel in a relaxed setting through hands-on activities, demonstrations and interactive displays.
One young attendee said a mock police mission was among the evening's highlights.
"We did the police station where you could have a pretend mission. And so I did that with my siblings."
Organizers said National Night Out allows families to interact with first responders outside of emergency situations, helping build trust and familiarity. Ashley Miller, the Public Information Officer for the Ocean City Police department says that the transparency allows for stronger service.
"A lot of times you don't need us until you're having a bad day or something like that," one Miller said. "So having it in one central location here at beautiful Northside Park creates an atmosphere that everybody gets to meet those first responders."
Families cooled off at a popular dunk tank while also exploring police vehicles, fire trucks and ambulances. First responders answered questions about their equipment and daily responsibilities.
"We'll tell you what do we carry on our vest? What do we carry on our duty belt? What's in an ambulance? What's on the fire truck? So it gives that firsthand glimpse of what's everyday, what's out there with our first responders."
The event also served as an opportunity to teach children when it is appropriate to call 911.
One child shared what they learned.
"When there's smoke coming out of your neighbor's house, you should call 911 for that. But if your neighbor's grass isn't cut, you shouldn't call 911 for that."
Another young attendee summed up the importance of the evening simply:
"They're the ones that keep us safe."
National Night Out is held annually in communities across the country to promote partnerships between law enforcement, emergency responders and the neighborhoods they serve.
