Teddy Bears, Baby Blankets: Pinole Police Tools

PINOLE, CA — Pinole Police officers are issued badges, gun and now — teddy bears and baby blankets.

For young children in situations where a police officer has been called to the scene, whether a traffic accident or the arrest of a parent, coping with the situation can be scary. Enter the “Bears and Blankets” program.

Pinole officers are now carrying stuffed animals and blankets with them to offer comfort and security during traumatic events.

"We do not ever want a child to be fearful of the police," the department said in a social media post, "we want them to learn at a young age that we are the ones who are here to help and protect them from harm. With this program we hope to bridge the gap between the youth and the police."

The ambassador of the program is Officer Valencia, pictured with a cuddly stuffed animal.