Enjoy an action-packed family day out

Thursday, 3 April 2014 - 1:52pm

Bay of Plenty

Wondering how to entertain the children this weekend? Or maybe you are thinking about a career in the emergency services or Defence Force but haven't quite taken that first step.

If so, Edgecumbe Domain is the place to head this Saturday (5 April) as Edgecumbe Blue Light in conjunction with local Police and Fire have organised a free open day between 10am and 3pm.

The aim of the day is to give the public an insight into the work of the emergency services and how they respond to different situations.

There will be displays from Police, Fire, Rural Fire, Ambulance, NZ Defence Force, Civil Defence, Coastguard and Surf Lifesaving and visitors of all ages will enjoy the entertaining demonstrations including appearances by the Police Dog Section and Armed Offenders Squad.

The demonstrations will be held every hour starting at 10.30am and in between there will be uniforms and equipment to try on, you can try your hand at time challenges and entry tests, and there will be prizes and giveaways. Staff from the various agencies will be on hand to give safety and prevention advice and answer questions you may have about a future career.

Edgecumbe Blue Light, which is a registered charity and community policing youth programme, will be operating out of the building on the domain and will have lots of information about activities they have planned throughout the year.

Be sure to get your passport for the day and enter yourself into the major prize draw. Food and drink vendors will also be present on the day.

Senior Constable Michael Lawton of Edgecumbe Police said: "The first experience youngsters often have of our services is during an emergency and this is a chance to give them a positive impression of who we are and what we do without the distress that comes with an emergency situation. It’s a great opportunity for us to stand side by side and raise awareness of our roles and to interact with the local community in a friendly and informal environment."

Whatever your age and whether you go to watch or to have a go, it is sure to be a fun way to spend the day.

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