Carson City Sheriff’s Office is hosting is 13th annual Cops and Kids Sheriff’s Open House Saturday

The Carson City Sheriff’s Office is hosting its 13th annual Cops and Kids Sheriff’s Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

The event will take place at the sheriff’s office, 911 E. Musser St.

Cops and Kids is a highly anticipated safety fair which combines fun with crime and substance abuse awareness. CCSO estimates more than 1,400 hot dogs and buns, 700 sodas, 800 bottles of water, coffee, and 400 prizes are going to be handed out.

Cops and Kids Sheriff’s Open House was started by Sheriff Ken Furlong as part of the community policing efforts implemented by his administration in order to create positive relationships between law enforcement, youth and citizens of all ages. “It is critical to the Carson City Sheriff’s Office that forming relationships with our kids is recognized as a priority. The Cops and Kids Fair is far more than an entertaining day. It is about building a future for our kids and opening the department to our community,” Furlong said.

“This event offers something for people of all ages,” said DARE Officer and organizer Lisa Davis. “There is always a new experience. Cops and Kids is designed to be interactive — learn while having fun.”

People can talk to officers, play games, climb through equipment, meet the service animals, meet and visit sponsors and local agencies. Davis said, “It is very important for the community to know that this event is about all of us — citizens, youth, agencies, businesses, and law enforcement.”

The event is partially funded by a Justice Assistance Grant and the sheriff’s office, but the event has grown beyond public funding capability. Local businesses stepped up to help defray costs. Grocery Outlet donates all of the hot dogs, buns and beverages. Dan Kimm Rock It Productions has provided music and a sound system for the past 12 years. Donations from American Family Insurance, Sun Spot Tanning, Northern Nevada Coin, Manny’s One Stop Shop Automotive Repair, the Kiwanis, Emblem Club, Monarch Direct, the Downtown Business Association, Liz’s Biz, and Jamba Juice all donate funds for prizes or provide services.

“These businesses give so much to make this event a success. Our sponsors increase every year,” said Undersheriff Steve Albertsen. “It would be impossible to maintain the growth of this event without their help. Cops and Kids is the spring board for National Night Out in August. Our event is nationally recognized every year — but the promotion all starts with Cops and Kids.”

For more information call Lisa Davis at 775-283-7809.