Chaverim of Rockland’s annual Safety Day and Carnival drew a record-breaking crowd on Sunday, with more than 15,000 children and thousands of parents filling the event grounds for what has become one of the largest family and safety events in Rockland County.

Children and families enjoyed a full day of attractions, entertainment, interactive exhibits, emergency vehicle displays, and hands-on safety demonstrations. The event also provided an opportunity for the community to meet the first responders and volunteers who serve residents around the clock throughout the year.

Participating agencies included Chaverim of Rockland, Hatzolah EMS of Rockland County, Ramapo Police Department, Spring Valley Police Department, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, including its Mounted Unit, and the New York State Police. Emergency personnel spent the day educating children on safety while showcasing the equipment and resources used to protect the community.

The event was attended by numerous elected officials, including Rockland County Sheriff Louis Falco, Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh, Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Ramapo Police Chief Daniel Hyman, Senator Bill Weber, Assemblyman Aron Wieder, Rockland County Legislator Moshe Hopstein, and Democratic State Senate candidate for the 38th District Joe Rand.

While thousands were enjoying the event, Chaverim volunteers were also carrying out their lifesaving mission. Chaverim of Rockland’s specialized Search & Rescue Team responded to Norvin Green State Forest in New Jersey after a 16-year-old bochur suffered an ankle injury while hiking deep in the rugged terrain. Volunteers utilized specialized rescue equipment to safely reach and extract the injured bochur before transferring him for medical care.

From search and rescue missions and missing-person searches to assisting stranded motorists and responding to tens of thousands of calls annually, Chaverim of Rockland continues to play a critical role throughout the region. Sunday’s record-breaking turnout served as a powerful display of appreciation from a community that relies on its volunteers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.