BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Kern County Public Health Department is working to make parks safer and cleaner. The department started the Park Partner Program, which is essentially a neighborhood watch for Sears Park.

"Look at the amount of cigarette butts we found mostly concentrated in the play equipment during one cleanup. This is nearly 800 cigarette butts," explained Brynn Carrigan of the Kern County Public Health Services. "And we all know OCAT is out here frequently picking up. So this is very unfortunate and this must change."

Community members signed up for the program on Saturday.

In addition, officials are installing a kiosk where used syringes can be disposed of safely and the Kern County Sheriff's Office has committed to responding to calls to the park. If you see drug use or fighting you're encouraged to call them immediately at 861-3110.