Festival to give children lessons on safety

A group called Craven County Safe Kids is making plans for participation in the annual Festival of Fun at Union Point Park.

Tuesday morning, committee members discussed the displays, games, demonstration and educational material they will offer at the April 26 event.

Some of the games will include changing smoke-detector batteries and putting life jackets on each other. There will contests with bicycle helmets and each child who participates in the challenges will get a medal.

The 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. activities will have representatives from various organizations, including the hospital, 4-H clubs, police, and fire. "Many agencies that are involved with safety concerns for children will be at the event," said committee member Pinkie Moore.

The New Bern Parks and Recreation Department is putting on the festival.

Safe Kids for Craven County was established several years ago and is sponsored by corporations across the country.

"The festival is really a chance for kids to have fun and learn about safety," said Kelly Forrest, chairwoman of Craven County Safe Kids.

The group is having a problem with volunteers. There is a core group of members, but the committee is asking civic clubs, church groups and other organizations to provide volunteers.

The group meets the fourth Wednesday of each month at the New Bern Fire and Rescue Department on Neuse Boulevard. To learn more, call the fire department at 639-2931.