"I threw the football in a bag!" said Derek Hood, an exuberant five-year-old from Bamberg, still practically dancing with pride as he left the Orangeburg fairgrounds after the 11th annual Safe Kids Saturday.

The chance to show off his football prowess, as well the opportunity to meet his favorite weatherman, Ken Aucoin of WIS-TV, were clearly the highlights of Derek's day.

However, for Derek's mother, Debbie Hood, the event proved to be highly educational. Her young son learned what to do if ever approached by a stranger

"Yell 'help' and 'stranger.' Fight, yell, kick and run away," said Hood, as she prompted Derek to repeat the important safety tips.

All types of informative health and safety tips were available Saturday for young and old. The event was sponsored by the Orangeburg-Bamberg-Calhoun Safe Kids Coalition and led by The Regional Medical Center.

The Safe Kids Coalition is affiliated with the National Safe Kids Campaign and aims to prevent unintentional injuries among children ages birth to 14 years.

Among the hundreds of families enjoying near-perfect weather and a carnival-like atmosphere were Kim Kim Foster, husband Walt Tobin Jr., and their two young children, Jack and Bishop.

"There's plenty of great stuff to do," Foster said. "They saw the helicopter come in and go ... (South Carolina State University) sponsored golf, tennis and bowling."

With Tobin serving as a Kiwanis Club volunteer, Foster said she was impressed by the brown bag treats provided by the local civic organization.

"I like that a drink, chips and a hot dog were $1," she said. "You can't beat that anywhere."

With so many activities, there was something for everyone.

Katrina Walker of Orangeburg, accompanied by her husband and daughter, was attending her second event. While her young daughter particularly enjoyed the air bag slide, she said that, overall, there were more things to do for entertainment.

First-time participant Elizabeth Fogle of Elloree decided to attend after "my son brought home a flyer from Calhoun Academy." With two sons and two nieces in tow, she was headed toward the huge jumping castle.

Another first-time participant was Veronica Hill of Holly Hill, who brought her three children.

"I read about it in the newspaper and made plans to come out," she said. "We're going to different tables. There's a lot of information for the kids."

Events included a drive-through safety seat check, a bicycle rodeo, the BATmobile machine for testing breath alcohol, pony rides, hill sliding and a Ronald McDonald show.

T&D Government Writer Tucker Lyon can be reached at tlyon@timesanddemocrat.com or by calling 803-533-5545.

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