Public Safety Day brings community together, opportunity to connect with first responders in Cary
CARY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Food trucks, children's activities and a popular "Touch-a-Truck" experience drew families to downtown Cary on Saturday for the Cary Police Department's annual Public Safety Day.
The event, held along South Academy Street, brought together dozens of public safety agencies, first responders and community organizations for a day focused on education, engagement and community connection.
Visitors had the opportunity to explore emergency vehicles, meet law enforcement officers and first responders, and learn more about the agencies that serve Wake County communities.
"We closed down basically all of downtown Cary and invited about 20 to 30 of our closest public safety partners," said Patrick Fox of the Cary Police Department. "Different law enforcement agencies, SWAT agencies, federal agencies, state agencies came here and lined the streets with vehicles for fun, family-friendly Touch-a-Truck activities."
The event also featured food vendors, interactive exhibits and a fitness competition between police officers and firefighters.
Fox said Public Safety Day gives officers an opportunity to connect with residents outside of emergency situations and helps break down barriers between law enforcement and the community.
"It really just humanizes us as police officers," Fox said. "It gives us the opportunity to come out and show people that we're here for them. We love you guys. You're part of our community."
Organizers said the event was designed to strengthen relationships between first responders and the people they serve while showcasing the resources available to keep Cary residents safe.
In addition to Cary Police and Cary Fire Department personnel, representatives from EMS, WakeMed and other local organizations participated in the event.
Public Safety Day took place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in downtown Cary along South Academy Street between Dry Avenue and East Park Street.
