Knightdale — Police officers and firefighters got to know their neighbors at National Night Out held August 5.

This is the second year Knightdale has participated in the event sponsored by The National Association of Town Watch and Target.

Assistant Town Manager Seth Lawless said the evening with free hot dogs and soft drinks was a relaxed setting to speak with public safety officers and firefighters. He said because last year’s event was successful, the town decided to participate again.

This year, residents descended at the intersection of Lauren’s Way and Parkside Commons to socialize with Public Safety officers and to visit with their neighbors.

“Just overall the highlight was there were a lot of neighbors there,” said Fire Chief Tim Guffey. “They know each other, but not really know each other. There was conversation between neighbors, the Target and public safety center folks.”

Guffey said the children scrambled to see the firetruck and enjoyed spraying water from the truck’s hose — a cool treat on a balmy night.

“It was in the 90s, but they warmed up to the fire truck,” said Guffy. Target manager Jamie Denny the night was worthwhile.

“It was a fun event,” she said. “They brought the community out and Target and law enforcement in.”

She said Target provided about 20 volunteers, the hot dogs and drinks, 911 coloring books and temporary tatoos and face painting for the children.

“They loved it, all. ..,”she said. “I think it was a chance for the kids to get to know each other better and I think all of them loved the fire truck demonstration.”

Acting police chief Lt. David Simmons said the comradery between public safety officers, Target employees and the children was good.

He said National Night Out provides a way for people to socialize with police and firefighters when they don’t have business with them.

“At first, this little group would stand off over here, and eventually they started mingling together, and I think it went off pretty good,” he said.

Last year’s event was held in the Mingo Creek subdivision. National Night Out is a drug and crime prevention event.