Open Day Success for Chiswick police

Hounslow Police held their open day at Chiswick Police station last Sunday ( Sept 22) and were visited by local residents, councillors as well as the High Sheriff of Greater London, Mr. David Jones, who all stopped by to have a behind-the-scenes look of their local police.

It was chance for the public to see what goes on inside a police station and to see up close some of the specialist units, equipments or resources that police use. Children were allowed to use the 'siren's and there were stands showing how fingerprints are taken, and stalls where the public could volunteer as a police cadet or as a volunteer at their local station.

Many were encouraged to take a tour of the custody area where they received a Custody demonstration where by a Custody Sergeant and civilian jailor booked in a "prisoner" and explained the procedure to the visitors.

Other activities included: a Firearms stand displaying the police equipment and vehicles by CO19 Firearms Command and SO18 Aviation Security, a finger prints stand explaining the reasons why they are taken, as well as a short visit by a police dog handler with "Boycie" the German Shepherd dog and guest appearance from PCSO Steve.

Officers also demonstrated safety drills and public order equipment. Both of these were very popular with members of the public being encouraged to participate in drills and try on equipment.

A particular attraction was from Hounslow Safer Transport Team who carried out free cycle security marking of bicycles and joined by Dr Bike who carried out maintenance checks on the bikes.

Superintendent Sally Benatar said, "We are pleased that so many people visited the police station to see behind the scenes.

“The Chiswick Open Day was a great opportunity to engage with the community and to show them what we do, the guided tours of the cells proved particularly popular on this occasion.

“I hope that those who visited us left with a positive impression of Hounslow Borough Police, we certainly enjoyed meeting everyone."