MOUNTLAKE TERRACE — If a night in a jail cell sounds like a good time for the family, then check out the Mountlake Terrace Police Department’s open house planned for Thursday.

As part of an evening of safety demonstrations — and an opportunity to meet new Police Chief Greg Wilson — families can pose for photos in the department’s holding cell.

“If they want to have a look from the other side, they’re welcome,” Wilson said.

Wilson took the job Aug. 11. He’s a former Federal Way commander and a 21-year veteran of law enforcement.

He’s spent the past few weeks getting acclimated, he said.

Wilson replaces former chief Scott Smith, who left the city in December to become chief of the Tulalip Tribal Police Department.

The new chief wants people to feel free to call police if they have problems.

“They’re more than welcome to contact our agency if they have questions or concerns about their neighborhood or enforcement,” he said.

At the open house, people can talk with detectives, see a demonstration of how easy it can be for crooks to break into a car, and learn about crime prevention.

The first 75 families to arrive will be given a free invisible ink marker. Police use a special light to read what’s written and the tool can help people get property back if it’s stolen, Wilson said.

There also will be demonstrations by a police drug dog.

Wilson said he hopes people will come down and get to know the city’s police department.

“We have an open door policy,” he said. “Feel free to get a hold of us, we’re working for you.”

Reporter Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3437 or jholtz@heraldnet.com.

Meet Mountlake Terrace police chief

Meet Police Chief Greg Wilson and see safety demonstrations at an open house, scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Mountlake Terrace police station, 5906 232nd Street SW. For more information, call 425-670-8260.