DENNIS PORT – Police departments across Cape Cod gathered with local residents Tuesday night for National Night Out events.
The annual community-building campaign promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
The recent shootings of police officers on Cape Cod show that building strong relationships between police and residents is essential, according to organizers.
Hundreds gathered in Dennis Port with police and other public safety agencies for a cookout, music and classic cars.
“We had a great turnout from our department, a great turnout from the community. It was just nice,” said Officer Ryan Carr, who helps organize the event.
Several public safety vehicles were also on display for kids to explore, including a Coast Guard boat brought on a trailer.
“We’re here for each other. We have to work together. The smiles on the kids’ faces today were awesome, that was the best part of it,” said Carr.
“It’s really important that we get out and connect with our community, the kids, establish relationships and all work together.”
Officer Liz Tucker, also with the Dennis Police Department, believes the National Night effort is making a difference as more children are recognizing police when they patrol neighborhoods or visit schools.
“It’s kind of peeling back the layers where they can feel comfortable and have a conversation with you,” Tucker said.
National Night Out events were also held in Mashee, Yarmouth and Falmouth.
Barnstable police and all five town fire departments will also reach out to the community on Wednesday with Kids Day.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Barnstable High School and will include SWAT and K-9 demonstrations, a helicopter, a parade through the parking lot and ice cream and hot dogs.
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