Some fire departments in the region have been installing reflective address signs at the end of driveways in an effort to increase visibility of house numbers, making it easier to locate residences during an emergency.
STURBRIDGE The best part of National Night Out is that it allows residents to meet public safety personnel in a fun environment, Sturbridge Police Chief Earl Dessert said.
The event, held Tuesday evening on the town common, brought out police, firefighters, DPW workers, emergency medical technicians, the community emergency response team, elected officials and many local businesses. It s a great way to bring the neighborhood together, Dessert said. It s a great way for people to get to know the first responders and for us to get to know the community and build relationships.
The event was cancelled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and lead emergency dispatcher Barbara Boiteau, who plans the event with Lt. Larry Bateman, jumped right in when she got the green light in June to begin planning this year s event.