Children got an up-close look at an air medical helicopter during Sachse Public Safety Day Saturday, Oct. 17. Photo Shelley Dowdle / The Sachse News

An air medical helicopter landing on the library lawn sent leaves flying and drew attention Saturday as families explored emergency vehicles, met search-and-rescue dogs and tried their hand at police drone technology during Sachse Public Safety Day.

The annual community event, held Saturday, Oct. 17 at the Sachse Municipal Complex, gave residents an opportunity to meet first responders, learn about emergency services and participate in hands-on activities designed for all ages.

One of the day’s highlights came at 11 a.m., when an air medical helicopter touched down near the library. Volunteers with the Sachse Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) secured the landing area and helped manage the crowd as visitors gathered to explore the aircraft and climb inside.

Nearby, Wylie Police Department Detective Blake Miller introduced visitors to drone technology used by law enforcement. Children and adults tried on drone goggles before Miller launched a drone, giving them a firsthand look at the view from above.

Four-legged first responders also attracted attention.

Members of Lone Star Search and Rescue brought search-and-rescue dogs to the event, giving visitors an opportunity to meet the animals and learn more about their work. Among the participating handlers were Chris Arnold with Ronin, Spencer Pearson with Roux and Michele Benjamin with Charlie.

At other stations, children collected fire safety information, played games and explored equipment used by emergency personnel. Malya and Miles Israel were among the youngsters who practiced walking on a simulated roof, an activity demonstrating a skill firefighters may use during rescue operations.

Fire trucks were available for visitors to explore at Fire Station No. 1, while informational booths and emergency vehicles were stationed throughout the municipal campus.

Participating organizations included Carter BloodCare, Heal-Corp Health Education and Liberty S.A.R. Dive Team. The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office also offered free vehicle identification number (VIN) etching.

Sachse CERT volunteers assisted throughout the event, including helping young visitors collect educational materials and other giveaways.

The four-hour event also featured complimentary chicken sandwiches from the Credit Union of Texas food truck and ice cream from the Taha Ice Cream truck.

Public Safety Day combined entertainment with practical safety education, giving residents a closer look at the people, equipment and organizations involved in emergency response.

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