First responders welcome the public to open event in Friendly City

Sparky, along with Lisa and Chris, posed with the Sehmbi family. (Ron Yuzark Photo)

Ron Yuzark, Echo Correspondent

Woodstock families gathered at Victoria Park on Aug. 20 for a lively morning celebrating community safety and teamwork. The First Responders Meet and Greet, hosted by EarlyON Child and Family Centre, brought together members of the Woodstock Police Department, Woodstock Fire Department, and Oxford County Paramedic Services for an engaging, educational event. Children and parents met uniformed first responders, explored emergency vehicles, and learned practical safety tips in a friendly, hands on environment. The park buzzed with excitement as youngsters tried on helmets, sounded sirens, and discovered how police officers, firefighters, and paramedics work together to keep the community safe. Organizers said the event aimed to strengthen trust and awareness between families and emergency personnel. “It was wonderful to see kids interacting with our local heroes and understanding the importance of safety,” one EarlyON representative shared. The morning concluded with smiles, photos, and heartfelt thanks to the dedicated teams who serve Woodstock and Oxford County every day.