SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - The final National Night Out of the season took place in East Forest Park Tuesday.

People of all ages were enjoying food, while getting to know their local first responders at Nathan Bill Park. Some even got a tour of Springfield’s fire trucks.

Towns and cities hold this annual event to emphasize the relationship between police and the communities they serve.

A lieutenant with the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office explained why those connections with kids are so important. “It’s to bring them into what we do and our world every day so they can see what we do as first responders. Especially the kids, so the kids aren’t afraid of us. We want the kids to come up to if they need help, we’re their friends were here to help them.” Said Lieutenant Damin Cherry.

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