Most kids would do whatever it takes to avoid ending up in the back of a police car.
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On Tuesday, hundreds lined up for the chance to clamber into one.
Shellharbour Kidsfest presented an emergency services expo at the Rural Fire Service’s control centre at the Illawarra Regional Airport, inviting the RFS’ comrades from police, ambulance and Fire Rescue NSW along for the day.
Children had the chance to pat a drug detection dog, spray a real fire hose, put on a firefighter’s helmet, check out the inside of an ambulance and – yes – willingly sit in the back of a police car.
‘‘It’s about breaking down the barriers between kids and emergency services, so they’re not scared of us,’’ said David Hitchens, Illawarra RFS district officer.
‘‘It can be loud or daunting when kids see us, like if they see us at a car accident. We want them to know we’re there to help.’’
Those attending had the rare opportunity to see specialist police units up close, including jet skis from the water police and towering dark horses from the mounted division.
Kidsfest artistic director Ann Lehmann said the emergency services expo was a highlight of the festival.
‘‘It’s awesome to see the kids’ excitement at seeing those amazing machines,’’ she said.
‘‘We want kids to have a positive response to these services.’’
Kidsfest runs until May 23. Events through the southern Illawarra include craft, sport, music, dance and a big finale event at Killalea State Park on Saturday.