On June 11, area first responders participated in a “First Responder Day” for children attending school at the Behavior Specialists of Louisiana located on Maple Street in Winnfield.  While sponsored by the Center, it also furthers positive interaction between children and all first responders incorporating the “Bridge the Gap” program of the Winnfield Police Department.

Representatives from the Winnfield Police Department, Winnfield Fire Department and Advance Ambulance Service were on hand to show and describe the emergency vehicles and equipment used in the daily activities of each department.  The Winnfield Police Department was represented by Officer Cassidy Martin who is also the Assistant Chief of the Winnfield Fire Department.  He showed his police unit, allowing children to learn to how the emergency lights and sirens are activated and the purpose of their use.  He also displayed several pieces of equipment, mostly those used by officers in dangerous situations, commonly called the Special React Team or SRT for short.  These included breaching tools, shields, and protective gear.

At the end of his presentation, each participant was given coloring books, toy badges and pencils provided by Chief Carpenter.  Fun was had by all while providing an excellent learning experience.