Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Community Engagement Day
Community Engagement Day a success
Cheshire Police hosted an action-packed day of fun on Sunday 19th September in order to showcase the hard work that goes on behind the scenes at Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Community Engagement Day a success
Despite the rain, people from as far afield as Cumbria made the journey to Winsford to take a peak behind the scenes of the county’s emergency services.
Visitors were also able to find out more about St John Ambulance, Crimebeat, Cheshire Search and Rescue, Highways Agency Patrol officers, North West Ambulance Service’s First Responders, Her Majesty’s Courts Service, Crown Prosecution Service, Salvation Army, Crime Stoppers, Red Cross, Victim Support and Local Criminal Justice Board.
The free event was a resounding success. A Winsford resident said: “It was a wonderful and entertaining day. It gave the public a good insight into their work and professionalism.”
The demonstrations by specialist teams proved popular and the police helicopter was a real draw for the crowds who flocked to Winsford HQ on the day. Mr Higgins from Macclesfield said: “It was fab. The helicopter was very exciting and there were lots of free things for the kids to explore.”
Thousands passed through the Oakmere Road HQ gates to watch the dogs at work, the taser demonstrations, road traffic collision display and more.
The public were able to see how firefighters and police officers work together to save people’s lives following a road traffic collision, and see the specialist vehicles and gear used by firefighters in a range of emergency situations.
The Cheshire Fire and Rescue cadets took to the arena to show off their skills while firefighters showed how they use specialist kit to decontaminate potentially life threatening chemical leaks.
The event illustrated all the specialist skills and equipment needed by the police and fire service to protect the public.
Those who got to see first hand how police officers deal with rioting crowds throwing petrol bombs at them were most impressed. Angela and Robert from Holmes Chapel said: “It was wicked. It was a fantastic insight into the work of the police force - the “riot” demo was a very powerful tool to demonstrate what officers face.”
Mrs Mundon from Stoke said: “It was a brilliant day and a great insight into all the services.”
There were also a range of vintage fire engines on show alongside vintage police cars and bikes.
Budding detectives also got the chance to solve a “who dunnit” with the help of detectives, and fire and police forensic teams. Those who successfully figured out who had set fire to the scorched living room set out in the exhibition hall will go into a prize draw. The winning entries will receive tickets for one of a range of family activities in due course.
Chief Constable Dave Whatton said: “Despite the elements being against us, the day was a real success and a credit to all staff and officers who volunteered to take part.
“We’d also like to thank the Big Lottery who gave us the money which enabled us to put on this event.”
Chief Fire Officer Paul Hancock said: “The Fire and Rescue Service and the Police work together on a regular basis so it was fantastic to see the two services working side by side.
“We hope that the day was not only enjoyable but it also gave those who attended important safety advice for them to take away to pass on to their friends and family,”
The day also raised money for the Youth Federation and the Firefighters Charity.