By Scott Mims

Local public safety officials will introduce themselves to Thorsby students on Thursday in observance of Safety Day in Richard Wood Park.

Thorsby Fire Department, Thorsby Police Department, the Chilton County Sheriff’s Department, The Chilton County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, and Operation Lifesaver — a group that teaches railroad safety — all will share important information and helpful tips with students from 9 a.m. until noon.

The event coincides with Thorsby School’s annual SKIP Program, which teaches elementary students the nationally renowned “Think First and Stay Safe” curriculum for a full week each May.

While Safety Day is mainly for students, community members are also welcome to attend.

“It allows kids to be able to meet public servants here in the town and become familiar with them,” said Thorsby Police Chief Rodney Barnett.

Barnett said one goal of Safety Day is to ease any fears that kids might have of police officers or other officials. One way of doing this is by providing contact information and letting kids know that officers are there to help them.

Students will break up into groups and spend approximately five minutes at each station in the park. During that time, they will get to see vehicles and equipment up close and receive a few “goodies” to take home.

Following that morning’s activities, members of Operation Lifesaver will go into Thorsby School and speak to older students.

“Hopefully, what they’ve learned this week and next week will enable them to have a safe summer,” Barnett said.