National Night Out returns with chance to explore Black Hawk helicopter

LACONIA — The police department's National Night Out next week is expected to include the landing of a National Guard Black Hawk helicopter in the middle of Smith Track at Opechee Park.

The free, annual community event will be held 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14, with the helicopter slated to arrive close to 4 p.m. Last year, the helicopter was diverted at the last minute to assist a hiker who suffered a medical emergency on the Kinsman Ridge Trailhead near Franconia. Police Chief Matt Canfield is excited to have it this year as part of the event.

“People will be able to view it, they'll be able to get inside,” he said. “They'll be able to talk to the pilots, ask any questions.”

The free evening will also have food, entertainment and informational tables, as well as motorcycle and drone demonstrations. The police department has three drones, used for investigations, SWAT operations, accident reconstruction, and search and rescue.

There will also be a resource fair, with partners including Lakes Region Mental Health Center, Laconia Public Library, Navigating Recovery, the New Hampshire National Guard, Big Brothers Big Sisters NH, and the Partnership for Public Health.

Representatives from Concord Hospital-Laconia’s stroke program will offer free blood pressure checks. The Laconia Fire Department will display a fire engine, ladder truck, ambulance, and a couple chief cars, as well.

“We try to educate the public in not only what the police department does, but other public services, including the fire department,” Fire Chief Tim Joubert said.

There will also be face-painting provided. Canfield said attendees should expect a number of other presentations as well.

Hot dogs, chips and drinks will also be available for all attendees, free of charge, served by volunteers. City Councilor Tony Felch (Ward 6) has been volunteering to cook for about a decade. He said he and some police officers serve around 500 dogs at the event annually.

“I just think it's a good cause,” he said. “The people of the city getting to know the police department.”

National Night Out was a program first developed in Philadelphia in 1989, as a way to unite the police and their community. It brought police officers into challenged and marginalized neighborhoods, and aimed to build trust and increase interactions with the people they serve. Since its founding it has spread across the country, to communities big and small. Laconia has been participating for about 15 years. Canfield wants the community to enjoy themselves.

“I certainly would encourage everyone to come on down and see us and say ‘hi,’ get some free food and check out all that we have to offer,” he said. “And learn a little bit about their police department and our community policing efforts, and meet some of our patrol officers.”