Hinesville hosted its annual Safe Kids Day Saturday, closing down Central Avenue for activities.

Children learned about staying safe and avoiding strangers. Mixed martial arts fighter Brian Rogers spoke to kids about bullying and later signed autographs. Parents had the opportunity to get their kids finger printed by the Hinesville Police Department, and the Hinesville Fire Department taught youth how to escape fire hazards.

Several local organizations offered educational advice and mentoring service to parents and children.

Local band 3rd Class Citizens (3CC) rocked the stage and Cesar Arocha from Team Eternal Force displayed his strength, ripping phone books in half and bending metal pans with his bare hands.

Young and old got an opportunity to ride a mechanical bull, enjoy the food and bond with each other.

“I think that the event went very well and that the families from the community really enjoyed themselves,” HPD officer James Williams said. “I really would like to thank my Safe Kids Day board members, sponsors and everyone who participated in the event. Without them, this event would not have been possible.”

The event was along Memorial Drive, where the city has been trying to increase activity.