Children and their families got an up-close look at dozens of police and fire equipment from Lake County departments Saturday during the 26th annual First Responders Expo at Gurnee Mills.

The free, family-friendly event gave children and their families the opportunity to learn through interactive demonstrations and exhibits.

Fire department divers in a portable tank showed how they can communicate with one another while under water during search-and-rescue responses. Kids had a chance to aim fire hoses at targets and were able to slide down a fire pole.

Police vehicles including an armored response unit were on display, and there was a K-9 demonstration.

The 9/11 Never forget Mobile Exhibit, an 83-foot tractor-trailer that transforms into an 1,100-square-foot exhibit dedicated to the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, made a return visit.