3rd Annual Fun With First Responders Event on March 7th

If you’ve ever wanted to see flashing lights, big trucks, helicopters, and safety demonstrations — Saturday's 3rd Annual Fun with First Responders event is your moment!

Public Safety Day is coming to Grace Presbyterian Church and organizers say this year is expected to be the biggest one yet. The event will take place from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and is free and open to the public.

Designed for all ages, the day will bring hands-on experiences, exciting demonstrations, and the chance to meet the people who serve and protect our community every day. From young kids fascinated by fire trucks to adults interested in learning more about emergency response, there will be something for everyone.

A Sensory-Friendly Start to the Day

The event will begin with a Sensory-Friendly Hour from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, when lights and other sensory elements will be reduced to create a more comfortable environment for those with sensory sensitivities. Organizers hope this time allows more members of the community to enjoy the event in a welcoming and accessible setting.

Live Demonstrations Throughout the Day

Several live demonstrations throughout the day will showcase how public safety teams train and respond to emergencies.

The Riverview Fire Department will host the York County Fire Smoke House Demo at 9:30 AM and again at 2:00 PM, offering a hands-on look at how families can safely escape a smoke-filled home during a fire.

At 10:30 AM, the event will officially begin with an Opening Ceremony, followed by one of the most anticipated demonstrations of the day: a Live Vehicle Extrication Demo at 11:00 AM, where first responders will show how they remove passengers from a vehicle following a serious accident.

Shortly after, attendees can look to the sky for a Helicopter Fly-In scheduled for 11:30–11:45 AM, when emergency aircraft are expected to arrive on-site.

A Chance to Save a Life

Visitors will also have the opportunity to give back while attending the event. The OneBlood donation bus will be on-site from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for anyone interested in donating blood and helping patients across the region.

Dozens of Agencies Participating

This year’s event will feature more than 30 public safety agencies representing York, Gaston, Lancaster, Union, and Mecklenburg counties, along with state and federal partners.

Visitors can expect to see three helicopters, a wide variety of emergency vehicles, and plenty of opportunities to meet first responders, explore equipment, and learn how different agencies work together during emergencies.

Family Activities and Food

In addition to the demonstrations and public safety displays, there will also be a kids craft area near the picnic tables and food trucks serving lunch and snacks.

Whether you’re 3 or 93, fascinated by fire trucks, patrol cars, ambulances, or simply looking for a fun community event, Public Safety Day offers a unique opportunity to connect with the people who serve our region every day!