Community building efforts by area first responders should be applauded
Tuesday evening offered a chance at a free family-friendly night out, a chance to sit in the front seat of a police cruiser, a chance to dunk an elected official in a dunk tank, and a chance to see the “Jaws of Life,” equipment used by firefighters to extricate crash victims, used in a low-stakes situation.
Tuesday evening also offered a chance for the community to meet area police officers, a chance to ask area law enforcement and first responders questions about their roles, and a chance to put a face to the people who serve our community every day.
These opportunities were offered between Butler and Forward townships, where first responders participated in National Night Out, a nationwide event that promotes community building between local first responders and residents.
State police officers from Troop D, members of the Evans City Volunteer Fire Department, Quality Ambulance and others gathered Tuesday evening at the Forward Township municipal building on Ash Stop Road.
The Butler Township police and fire departments held their event at Bocce Drive and Vista Drive for a ninth year.
Lt. Matthew Pearson, of Butler Township police, said he was pleased with the turnout, which was larger than in the past.
“You have to build those relationships,” Pearson said about the event.
Township police Chief John Hays echoed this sentiment.
“It puts a face to the people, especially (the residents) seeing us,” he said.
As much as Tuesday offered up a good time, it was also serving an important purpose.
National Night Out, according to the movement’s website, aims to provide an opportunity that brings “police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.”
The website reported 284 cities across Pennsylvania and 17,000 across the country participated in Tuesday’s event.
We think there’s great value in building these relationships between residents and their area first responders. In an emergency, there’s likely not time for conversation. Events like Tuesday’s allow relationships to form.
We want to thank and applaud those across Butler County who participated in yesterday’s National Night Out and encourage others to participate in the future.
— TL
