CLARK COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — First responders traded their uniforms for costumes Thursday night, joining hundreds of families for the city's annual Halloween Mania event in downtown Winchester.

The Halloween celebration, which closes several downtown blocks to traffic, provides children with a safe environment to trick-or-treat while allowing police and fire departments to connect with the community in a positive setting.

"Allows the kids to come down here in a safe environment where there's not cars speeding around them," said Chief Travis Thompson of the Winchester Police Department.

For first responders, the event offers a chance to show their friendlier side to children who might otherwise only see them during emergencies.

"When we kind of show behind the mask and everything, and w

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