Fort Wayne families have a new reason to gather this September. The 18th annual Allen County Safety Fair returns on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted at the Public Safety Academy on the city’s east side. The free, open‑to‑the‑public event is designed to teach children and parents practical skills for personal safety and emergency preparedness.
Local agencies lead hands‑on learning
Representatives from the Allen County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fire Department, and local emergency‑medical services will staff booths and interactive stations. Attendees can practice fire‑extinguisher use, learn how to stop, drop, and roll, and receive guidance on creating family emergency plans. A dedicated area for kids features age‑appropriate games that reinforce the importance of calling 911 only in true emergencies.
Why the fair matters for families
Recent storms and severe weather events have highlighted the need for community readiness. Organizers say the fair provides a safe, family‑friendly environment where parents can ask questions, receive printed safety checklists, and discover resources such as free CPR certification courses offered later in the year. By involving local public‑safety agencies, the event reinforces the partnership between law‑enforcement, fire services, and the community they protect.
What to expect
- Free safety demonstrations – Learn how to use a fire extinguisher, practice basic first‑aid, and understand the proper use of emergency kits.
- Kid‑focused activities – Interactive games, a “safety scavenger hunt,” and a mock emergency‑response drill designed for children ages 5‑12.
- Resource tables – Handouts on creating family emergency plans, assembling disaster‑ready kits, and contact information for local shelters.
- Meet local responders – Police, fire, and EMS personnel will be on hand to answer questions and demonstrate equipment.
The event is free, and no registration is required. Parking is available on the academy’s lot, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Families are encouraged to arrive early, as space at the activity stations may fill quickly.
Community support
The Safety Fair is sponsored by the Allen County Board of Commissioners and supported by local businesses that donate supplies and refreshments. Organizers hope the fair will become an annual tradition that strengthens community bonds and equips residents with the knowledge to protect themselves and their loved ones.
For more information, visit the Allen County government website or call the Public Safety Academy’s outreach office at (260) 555‑1234.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
