On Tuesday, August 5, 2008 from 6-10 p.m., neighborhoods throughout Salem joined forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the "25th Annual National Night Out" crime and drug prevention event.  National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Salem Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies, involves over 10,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. Last year over 34 million people participated in "America's Night Out Against Crime", which took place on August 7th.

National Night Out provides an opportunity for all community members to get to know one another and build strong networks of communication about what’s happening in the neighborhood.  Many neighborhoods throughout Salem hosted a variety of special events such as block parties, BBQ's, parades,  flashlight walks, contests and youth activities.  Officers from the Salem Police Department dropped in to visit with neighbors and talk about important crime prevention tips.  National Night Out is designed to (1) heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) generate support for, and participation in local anti-crime efforts; (3) strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and (4) send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. 

An idea which has been part of National Night Out for sometime has been Project 365, which suggests that a neighborhood start a special community project in their area with a goal to complete or achieve that goal on National Night Out. For example, some areas have neighborhood clean-up, graffiti paint-overs, expanding Neighborhood Watch or other neighborhood problems as their project. Ultimately as National Night Out rolls around each year, along with the traditional activities, coordinators will be reporting on the results of problem areas that they have designated from the previous year and targeting a new area or problem for the coming year.

It is never too early to start planning for the next National Night Out. If you want a visit from the Salem Police Department and a costumed mascot you need to register early. Scheduling of visits are done by area and requests are numerous, so flexibility of time is imperative. A registration form can be obtained at the Salem Police Department, 555 Liberty Street SE #130, Salem, Oregon 97301.  You can also download a printable form in English  or download a printable form in Spanish . 

If you want to close your street or utilize a City park for a party during National Night Out, a permit is required. Permit fees are waived for National Night Out, and signs and barricades are made available for this special event at no cost to the users. Contact Becky George, Community Services Division directly at 503-588-6261 for a temporary street closure permit or park usage permit or download a printable form using the link below.

http://www.cityofsalem.net/departments/scserv/recreation/streetclosure.htm

If you have any questions regarding this event, call Christie Rodriquez, Salem Police Department, 503-588-6175.