Each year, thousands of communities gather together to participate in National Night Out (NNO). On Tuesday, August 5th, 2008 the NNO campaign celebrates its 25th year of mobilizing citizens, law enforcement, neighborhood watch groups, businesses and other local organizations in nearly 10,000 communities.
National Night Out aims to help raise awareness of crime and drug issues in the community. NNO also is a great opportunity for you and your neighbors to build support for neighborhood watch groups, establish a better relationship with the police, and to help send a loud message to criminals in your area that you are fighting back.
The National Association of Town Watch, (Sponsors of NNO), recognize and award communities that host successful National Night Out activities. Here are some activities that you might consider organizing in your own community:
- Organize neighborhood cleanup days for your neighborhood. You’ll get some fresh air and exercise. Plus, the more people who help, the faster it gets done.
- Make sure your streets and homes are well-lit.
- Start a conversation with your neighbors—even about the weather. From there it’s an easy step to keeping informed about your neighborhood.
- Invite people over for a cup of coffee and share your concerns about what’s happening on your street and offer solutions.
- Make and deliver cookies for special occasions
- If your neighbors travel, offer to watch their home—when you travel ask them to do the same.
- Instead of hiding keys around the outside of your home, give an extra key to a neighbor you trust.
- Be alert as you go about your daily business. Learning the normal routines of your neighborhood will help you spot anything out of place.
- Develop a home evacuation plan and practice it with your family and neighbors.
Communities all over the country have been able to make a real difference in reducing crime, and we have plenty of resources right here at the AMW Safety Center to help you learn how to create a successful neighborhood watch. Check with your local law enforcement office for National Night Out events in your own community.
One Comment on "“If You See Something, Say Something”: National Night Out Turns 25"
silena
dear amw ,i love your show .i watch it every night that i can. i feel that it doesnt make no sense that we should have any criminals on the street. thats why i am happy for the nno.not to mention that i am only thirteen years old. nowadays we have so many bad communities that it becomes unsafe for children like me to walk on yhe streets. every secomd i feel that i have to look over my shoulder to make sure nothing susspicious around me. i shouldn’t have to do that but i do if i want to be safe . thats why i am so happy for americas most wanted because it helps me to be on the look out p.s please air this on your if you want yoyu can mention my name i wouldnt mind
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