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10/06/2012 04:20 PM

GPD Hosts First Annual Public Safety Expo

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The Greece community got a first hand look at what it takes to be a first responder and work in public safety. It was a part of the Greece Police Department's Public Safety Expo.

It's an event that serves as a relationship building block between the community and public safety departments.

"It shows them that they care. It shows them that they are also a part of their community," said Gates resident Colleen Merchant. "They want to show that they can benefit from coming in and making friends and then when they see them outside of their job. They can also know that they are a part of the community."

This is the first year for the Public Safety Expo held at Greece Ridge Mall. It was put on by the Greece Police Chief Interactive Committee. It's a committee of residents, formed under Chief Todd Baxter nearly two years ago.

"I think Chief Baxter has done an amazing job in the last, little over two an a half years to rebuild our trust in the Greece Police Department and this just takes it a little step farther. Yes, they're here to serve protect and guide and also they can be trusted," said committee member Marty Murray.

From Scuba to SWAT teams, sixteen public safety agencies throughout Monroe County joined the Greece Police Department to talk to the public about what they do.

"When we're out here, we're actually shaking hands with people, talking to them. They are getting to see our equipment. We're asking questions about each other. That's how you build trust. You build trust by getting to know people," said Baxter.

Committed members say they plan to turn the expo into an annual event. They hope the expo will not only help the community gain knowledge about the job of a first responder, but respect for what they do.

"On a moment's notice when you call 911, whether it's a firefighter, policeman or EMT, they are going to come. They don't know who you are but they're going to come and they are going to risk their life trying to help you and whatever your call was. I hope people see that at the end of the day," said Baxter.