This coming August 5, Naperville will celebrate its 19th annual National Night Out. This nationwide event is designed to heighten drug prevention and crime awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts and strengthen neighborhood spirit. In 2013 more than 30 Naperville neighborhoods participated.
Today, people are busier than ever and no one seems to really know their neighbor(s). National Night Out, however, is a terrific opportunity for residents to come together, meet new neighbors and reconnect with old ones.
I always tell people that one of the best ways to keep yourself from being a victim of a crime is to be aware of your surroundings. Know what is going on around you. This applies to you and your neighborhood as well.
Cohesive neighborhoods are one significant key to preventing crime and violence. It’s important for all of us to come together for the shared goal of a safe and healthy community.
Did I mention that when you register your National Night Out event with the City of Naperville, members from the Naperville Police, Park District Police, Fire, Public Works, Animal Control, Electric and Water Utility departments will visit many of the registered events? How fun would it be to get all your neighbors together, have a block party or ice cream social and then have members from some of Naperville’s finest departments stop by! Your event can be big or small.
This year the City is excited to incorporate a Prescription Drug Take Back initiative into National Night Out. The Naperville Police Department will be providing a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs. There are soaring rates of abuse of prescription drugs and they are often times obtained from a friend or family member’s medicine cabinet. This is a great opportunity to get rid of any expired or unused medication.
For more information on Naperville’s 19th Annual National Night Out or help with planning your event please visit the City’s web site at www.naperville.il.us.
Until next month… Stay aware and stay safe.
