Maraisburg Community Policing Forum (CPF) vice-chairman Noor Brown believes that the public, police and other emergency services have strengthened their relationship for the future after this past weekend’s successful escapade at Hoërskool Florida.
From as early as 10am, the public was seen arriving at the school to engage with stakeholders and those who protect, watch over and care for them in case of an emergency.
Among the stakeholders were the Florida South African Police Service (SAPS), SAPS reservists in the Honeydew Cluster, Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS), APCAN Security, Fire West Rand, ER24, Netcare 911 and the SAPS brass band.
Brown once again highlighted the importance of such an event that brings all the role-players together.
“The aim was to let the general public engage with police and other emergency services; raise awareness about crime prevention; give safety tips and have fun at the same time.
“The turnout was good and we are happy with the outcome. The public must realise that police and other emergency services have dangerous jobs, and that they need to support them.
“I think we were able to bring this message across well, thanks to the awesome demonstrations.”
Highlights for the day were the successful joint rescue demonstration by the Fire Department and ER24 paramedics who rescued a person from a vehicle, and the planned hijacking situation where police gave chase and eventually managed to arrest the suspect.
“It was even more fantastic to see the kiddies involved as well; it is very important that youngsters know who the good and the bad guys are.”
