Northmoreland National Night Out gives first responders chance to interact with residents
Northmoreland National Night Out 2022 returns to Northmoreland Park this summer after a successful turnout last year, organizers said.
The free event is open to the public and is scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 3.
The picnic aims to build relationships between the community and first responders and to promote positive crime and drug prevention events.
Coordinator and volunteer Mary Jo Riddle of Vandergrift said the event draws first responders from four area school school districts: Kiski Area, Burrell, New Ken-Arnold and Franklin Regional.
Participating municipalities include Vandergrift, Lower Burrell, Leechburg, North Apollo, Allegheny Township, Penn, Trafford, Murrysville and Washington Township.
“Our first responders are striving to address underage drinking and prescription drug use/abuse with youth in the community,” Riddle said.
Kayla Watt, a prevention specialist with the Westmoreland Drug and Alcohol Commission, said the event serves an important purpose.
“It’s an opportunity for the community to meet their local police officers and first responders, and this is important to bridge the gap. The police are there to help us, and we can turn to them when we need to,” Watt said. “It’s to help break down barriers between the public and law enforcement.”
The event was founded in 2018 and is coordinated by the Westmoreland Drug and Alcohol Commission and the Council on Substance Abuse and Youth.
Randy Dunmire, chief of the Vandergrift No. 1 Volunteer Fire Department, said the event showcases more than 30 fire, police and EMS vehicles, including a helicopter.
“The kids enjoy seeing the different types of equipment on display. They can sit in the trucks, try on equipment, take photos and ask questions,” Dunmire said.
Dunmire described the atmosphere as informal and family friendly.
“It’s grown bigger every year because more departments are participating,” Dunmire said.
Attendees are not required to reside in Westmoreland County.
Parking is free, and no pre-registration is necessary.
More than 30 local vendors and organizations will be available to share information about community resources.
Free hot dogs and drinks will be available. Live entertainment will be provided by the Apollo-based Luke Weltz Band. Scheduled children’s activities include parachute play.
Last year, the event drew about 600 people.
“Our attendees have reported positive interactions with first responders and really enjoy this community event. Our feature attendee is always the medical helicopter, and attendees really enjoy all of the unique first responder units,” Riddle said.
This year, organizers are expecting about 800 attendees.
The event will be held rain or shine.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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