Today from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. is the second National Night Out in Hastings at Tyden Park.

Hastings Deputy Police Chief Dale Boulter, who is credited with organizing the national observance locally, said the event is a great way for the public to meet and get to know the people in Barry County who respond to their friends and neighbors during an emergency.

The first night out that attracted between 1,500 and 2,000 people and the second of the hopefully annual event has more participation and longer hours than last year, Boulter said.

Barry Central 911, Hastings and other police departments, Barry County Sheriff’s deputies, Michigan State troopers, area fire department firefighters and ambulance service personnel will bring their equipment and explain what they do in emergency response.

“The event promotes a sense of community, positive public relations, safety and trust between the public and emergency services personnel that serve them,” Boulter said.

Look for special events, displays, prizes, free hot dogs, chips and bottled water.

Photo: Freeport Firefighter Lani Forbes helps a possible future firefighter Dylan Krueger manage a fire hose to knock down the target at last year's National Night Out.