On Saturday, Oct. 31, the Costa Mesa Police Department hosted a “Substation for a Day” on Shalimar Drive. The goal of the event was to reach out to the local community, and make them aware of services that are offered.

The department partnered with Mika CDC, who took care of notifying all the local residents. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., residents were able to come out and greet the officers and explorers, and since it was Halloween, all children in costume received a bagful of candy.

Crime prevention information was available, including child safety ID kits and trick or treat safety information.

Recreation leaders were there with large games for the kids, and several of the police officers on hand played with the kids. Several adults came out and met with officers, offering some information on criminal activity in the area.

This gave the adults an opportunity to meet with officers in a non-threatening environment. In addition, 34 bicycles were licensed. This type of event is designed to bring the community and law enforcement together, and encourage a partnership to keep neighborhoods safe.