Trading bullets for beanbags at Cops and Kids Open House

With a bunch of drunken drivers in the jail, sheriff's deputies working to stamp out violence, and motorcycle officers working traffic, you'd think it was a typical day at the Carson City Sheriff's Department.

And it might have been, expect for the 500 or so children running around.

Saturday marked the annual Cops and Kids Open House in the parking lot at the Carson City Sheriff's Department.

"This is significant because it is designed for children and the public," Sheriff Kenny Furlong said. "Ideally, the goal is that a child will walk away knowing the name of a police officer."

Being able to see police officers in a less-stressful or positive situation makes it easier on children if they encounter policemen in other situations, according to Furlong.

"We target positive exchanges. Children see an officer on the street, and they are fearful. See them here, and it's a positive exchange. Give them a positive reaction, and kids are less frightened," Furlong said.

The event features games and demonstrations by all the departments, including a drunken-driving simulator, SWAT team, gang and traffic units as well as Explorers and VIPs, or Volunteers in Partnership with the sheriff.

Children could meet Luke, the department's drug dog, and sign up to be sheriff for a day. There was also a dunk tank, old pushcarts, face painting and a bounce house.

Off in one corner, members of the Kiwanis Club were grilling up more than 500 hot dogs for the public.

"We are a service organization so we volunteer our time for the community. Plus, we'd do anything for kids," said Pam Sturlin, Kiwanis events chairwoman.

Thirteen-year-old Eli Tussing of Carson City listed the dunk tank as his favorite part, but also said he learned several things from the officers.

"They are telling me not to take drugs and don't drink and drive," Eli said.

The Cops and Kids event is one of two public events put on by the sheriff's department. The National Night Out, promoting community awareness and support, is the first Tuesday in August.

This year's Cops and Kids event holds additional significance because it will most likely be the last public event held at the old building.

The new Sheriff's Office is scheduled to be at least partially completed in time for the event next year.

• Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.