Gilbert, AZ — This past weekend the town welcomed several hundred families to the first ever Lights, Sirens and Safety event, a community‑focused fair designed to equip parents and children with life‑saving knowledge.
Local partners bring resources together
Desert Shores Pediatrics organized the gathering, inviting representatives from Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the Banner Poison Control Center to share expertise. Gilbert police officers and firefighters staffed hands‑on stations, demonstrating how to call 911, communicate with dispatchers, and perform basic first aid and CPR.
Practical lessons for everyday safety
Attendees rotated through interactive booths where they learned proper car‑seat installation, how to recognize choking hazards, and the steps to take in a medical emergency. Demonstrations included the correct technique for chest compressions on both adults and children, as well as how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) should one be needed.
In addition to medical training, the event highlighted home safety. Volunteers distributed fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and safety checklists, encouraging families to create emergency plans for their households.
Supporting children in crisis
Organizers asked families to bring a new teddy bear. The collected bears were handed over to the Gilbert Police Department, which will distribute them to children who experience traumatic incidents, offering a small comfort during difficult times.
Community contributions
Local businesses and nonprofit groups donated swim lessons, first‑aid kits, and home‑safety equipment, underscoring the town’s commitment to protecting its youngest residents. The collaborative effort reflects Gilbert’s tradition of faith‑based families and civic responsibility working together for the common good.
Event planners hope the fair will become an annual tradition, expanding its reach to more neighborhoods and adding new safety topics such as pediatric mental‑health first aid and disaster preparedness.
Residents who missed the event can stay informed about future community safety initiatives by following the town’s official website or contacting the Gilbert Police Department.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
