Daily Herald opinion: National Night Out builds connections between neighbors and first responders

One great way to make our neighborhoods safer is to know our neighbors.

And while we can wave and say hello to folks from time to time, it’s a pale substitute for having face-to-face conversations with the people who live around us.

National Night Out is an opportunity to make those connections.

The annual summer tradition encourages folks to go outside and meet with their neighbors and first responders.

This week, dozens of cities and villages throughout the suburbs are hosting events for National Night Out. A vast majority of the cookouts, block parties and get-togethers are happening tonight.

In a story published on Saturday, officials from the Carol Stream Police Department told reporter Dave Oberhelman that they appreciate National Night Out because it allows residents to view police officers in a different light.

“It’s good for the soul to be able to connect with people on a different level, when they start to see you beyond the uniform,” Deputy Police Chief Brian Cluever said.

“You’re not just a police officer, you’re also a person, and you have feelings and family,” Cluever said. “We have a lot in common, right? And it’s nice to make those connections.”

Indeed, the National Night Out website describes the event as a campaign to promote “police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.”

The National Association of Town Watch launched the annual observance in the 1980s as an anti-crime campaign to get people to meet with neighbors, police officers and firefighters. Most of the participating communities celebrate it on the first Tuesday in August.

This year, at least 182 municipalities in Illinois are participating in National Night Out. Each town has its own unique way of celebrating.

In Naperville, 39 neighborhoods plan to host events, including cookouts, block parties and neighborhood walks. Geneva police have lined up live drone demonstrations, a Touch-a-Truck display and visits with the department’s comfort dog, Tommy, a Golden retriever.

On Wednesday, Palatine has planned various activities, including food trucks and live demonstrations. Barrington’s event on Thursday will include burgers, a wood workshop for kids and bike helmet giveaways.

Although each celebration is unique, the objective remains the same: to enhance crime prevention awareness and fortify the connection between residents and their first responders.

Engaging with a police officer or firefighter during a National Night Out event is worthwhile, because many of us rarely have the chance to talk with them in an informal setting. Then there is the value of simply getting to know the people in your neighborhood.

Neighbors who know each other are more likely to report suspicious activity and call 911 when they observe potential problems. Meanwhile, tips from residents can help police reduce crime.

If your town celebrates National Night Out, it’s worth checking out. And if your town does not participate, set aside some time to chat with neighbors. You’ll be happy you did.