About 65 children from the Township of Hamilton Summer Camp spent the day with local first responders on August 19, getting a behind-the-scenes look at policing and public safety.
The Northumberland OPP hosted the youth at its detachment for a day filled with hands-on activities, demonstrations and opportunities to build positive relationships with emergency service personnel.
The campers took part in a Touch-a-Truck experience, explored police vehicles and equipment, toured the detachment and put their investigative skills to work during a mock investigation called “The Case of the Missing Freezies.”
Working together as young detectives, the campers followed clues and interviewed suspects in an effort to crack the case.
The day also featured several community partners, including members of the Correctional Service of Canada’s Canine Unit.
The CSC team brought a prisoner transport vehicle and spoke with campers about specialized correctional services and their role in keeping communities safe.
The Township of Hamilton Fire Department also played a big role in the day, providing and serving a barbecue lunch. The meal gave the children another chance to interact with first responders in a relaxed setting.
OPP officers from the Whitby and Peterborough County detachments also joined Northumberland officers to help deliver activities and spend time with the campers.
Staff Sergeant Paul McDonald of the Northumberland OPP said building relationships with community partners is an important part of public safety.
“Our children are our future, and building healthy relationships built on trust and respect is important to our community engagement while supporting our local action plan,” McDonald said.
He thanked the organizations and officers who came together to give the children a memorable day.
“Thank you to all our partners that came together to provide these children a day full of fun activities.”
The OPP says events like the youth day are designed to help children become more comfortable with first responders while developing confidence, understanding and a stronger connection to their community.
The interactions can also give young people a glimpse into careers in policing, corrections, firefighting and other public service professions.
The Northumberland OPP thanked the Township of Hamilton Summer Camp, Township of Hamilton Fire Department, Correctional Service Canada, the OPP Youth Foundation and all participating OPP members for helping make the event a success.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
