Many Communities Observe National Night Out
Turning on porch lights and strolling the neighborhood to prevent crime –
The National Night Out celebration on the first Tuesday in August has gained popularity throughout the United States over its three decades. It began in 1984 in neighborhoods experiencing a sudden crime wave. As a crime prevention tool, the goal was to strengthen neighborhood unity and spirit, and develop partnerships between city personnel and communities. The event brings together residents with their neighbors, law enforcement, fire personnel, community groups, businesses, neighbor organizations and local officials. In 2012 more than 37 million people in 15,000 communities in all 50 states participated, U.S. territories and Canada.
Originally, it was simply a call to turn on porch lights at sunset and leave them on until 9 pm, while sitting on the porch or strolling the block to greet other neighbors. This year National Night Out falls on Tuesday, August 6 and will be celebrated in many of Piedmont’s neighboring communities. To date with Piedmont’s historically low crime rates, it has not been observed in our city.
The City of Oakland will be participating in National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6.
