Fox Valley communities support police at National Night Out
Police departments throughout the Fox Valley participated Tuesday in the 33rd annual National Night Out Against Crime with gatherings, block parties, games and other activities.
Elgin featured a citywide block party at Festival Park, including the movie, "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." The police department's K-9 unit gave a demonstration, visitors could check out the department's BATT and Tactical Response Team equipment and the crowd enjoyed a helicopter landing. It also included children's activities, a fire safety smoke house, fire pole, antique fire truck, train and safety town. Kids were encouraged to dress like a "Star Wars" character for a chance to win a special prize.
The Kane and McHenry counties sheriff's departments also had Night Out festivities in St. Charles and Wonder Lake.
National Night Out is celebrated the first Tuesday of August. Its goal is to promote crime prevention and safety programs, strengthen police/community partnerships and encourage neighborhood camaraderie.
Learn more at natw.org/about/.