Campers at the YMCA summer camp on Knickerbocker Lake were treated to a surprise visit by local law enforcement and firefighters Aug. 12. The brainchild of bus driver John Mitkus, the event was designed to have kids meet the people who protect and serve in their area. While the fire trucks and police cruisers drew a crowd, Mitkus also provided free scoops of chocolate and M&M-flavored ice cream, a big treat on a day where the temperature hovered near 90 degrees. 

“I thought it would be a nice thing for everybody,” said Mitkus. “I had the idea last year but things got too busy. I want them to have a chance to interact and ask questions.”

The roughly 200 campers had a chance to sit in a police car, don the helmet of a firefighter, and ask questions of emergency response officials. Boothbay Harbor police officer John Braley brought his cruiser and showed the kids what it was like to sit behind the wheel. Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin Dennison brought police dog Koda and explained the importance of having a canine crew member on the force. 

According to the online policeman forum officer.com, officers who have spent time talking and getting to know children build a trust that develops into a relationship. This relationship promotes cooperation as the child grows. Children who trust police are more likely to cooperate not only when they are still a child but when they grow into adulthood. This trusting relationship also encourages them to turn to police in times of trouble, the website states.

“It’s really cool and fun to see the fire trucks,” said YMCA camper Omar Dean. “And I love ice cream.”