National Night Out returns to Latrobe with safety simulations, first responder displays

Safety simulations, first responder vehicles and activities for kids await visitors to Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium Thursday during the community’s National Night Out event.

Set for 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., the event is returning to the city for the first time since the arrival of the covid pandemic in 2020.

Among hands-on activities are some challenges attendees can try to complete while wearing Fatal Vision goggles that simulate impairment from use of alcohol or marijuana.

“You can try to catch balls while you’re wearing the goggles,” said Beth Straka, community service officer for Latrobe Police Department, which hosts the event. “It’s a simulation of what this does to your body under the influence.”

Begun in 1984, National Night Out events are held across the country in August, to promote police-community partnerships.

The event is an opportunity for residents to meet Latrobe police officers. A number of other first responder organizations will be on hand, along with area social service groups

State police will perform child car seat safety checks.

Visitors will be able to view an Army Blackhawk helicopter and armored BearCat vehicles from the fleets of Greensburg police and the state Attorney General’s Office.

Although the Latrobe Police Department’s own K-9 program recently was disbanded, Latrobe police Chief Richard Bosco said police dogs from other area agencies — including the Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office — are expected to participate in Thursday’s event.

New to the Latrobe event will be members of the Greensburg Fire Department bloodhound team and of the Hempfield-based Top Dog therapy dog team.

A variety of food vendors will be available.