Naperville to celebrate National Night Out Aug. 2

City Encourages Neighborhoods to Participate

Neighborhoods throughout Naperville are invited to join communities nationwide and participate in the city's 16th annual National Night Out event from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 2.

Neighborhoods are asked to register their National Night Out event with the City of Naperville by Monday, July 25. To register, please call Graduate Intern Laura Valdez at (630) 305-4020 or e-mail her at valdezl@naperville.il.us.

National Night Out is a nationwide event designed to generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and improve the relationship between the community police department and residents. Last year's National Night Out campaign involved citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from more than 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. In all, more than 37 million people participated in National Night Out 2010.

To celebrate National Night Out, all residents are encouraged to lock their doors, turn on their outside lights and spend the evening outdoors with their neighbors. Members of the Naperville Fire, Police, Public Works and Electric and Water Utility Departments will visit registered events. Previous Naperville neighborhood events have included block parties, parades and more.

“We encourage all Naperville residents to participate in National Night Out,” Community Relations Manager Nadja Lalvani said. “The city is committed to educating our residents about what we do, strengthening our relationships with them and reminding residents that their safety is our top priority. This is an informal and fun opportunity for families to head outside, spend time with their neighbors and friends and meet the city workers that keep our city running smoothly and safely.”

All Naperville residents can help keep their neighborhoods safe by simply leaving their outdoor lights lit overnight. Naperville utility customers can leave their outdoor lights on overnight, every night, for less than a nickel per day. Crime prevention statistics indicate that well-lit buildings discourage criminal activity and improve public safety.

For more information on National Night Out, visit www.nationalnightout.org/nno/ or www.naperville.il.us/nno.aspx. For more information on the City of Naperville, visit www.naperville.il.us. Sign up to receive the latest news on the City of Naperville's projects and initiatives via e-mail at www.naperville.il.us/enews.aspx.