Houston Police Department

July 17, 2006 -- There has never been a better time than now for neighbors to unite and participate in the upcoming Houston / Harris County 2006 National Night Out effort being held on Tuesday, August 1, 2006. The National Night Out concept of neighbors getting to know their neighbors is not just a one-night affair. Many neighborhoods are actively involved in crime reduction programs all year long and National Night Out gives them the opportunity to show off their success and recruit more crime fighting eyes and ears to locate potential problems.

Increased fear of crime, juvenile violence and an upsurge in murders are just a few reasons why residents need to coordinate National Night Out efforts in their neighborhoods and learn strategies on ways to work with local police officers in creating a safer environment in their communities. Some communities are taking their crime prevention measures one step further. Some adjoining communities are using the Internet to communicate to each other about the types of crimes that are occurring in their respective neighborhoods. Sharing this type of information arms a community with information so they can take the proper steps toward preventing it.
This is one of many innovative ways residents are taking back their communities and kicking crime out. It has become quite clear that everyone needs to remain watchful for possible criminal activity, especially in our neighborhoods. Getting to know your neighbors is one of the most important lines of defense in keeping crime at bay. This is what National Night Out 2006 is about. This crime prevention program has been in Houston / Harris County for more than 21 years and is one of many programs that targets crime in communities and teaches residents how to reduce burglaries and thefts in their neighborhoods.

Getting involved in your community's crime reduction efforts is a good idea and it's easy to do. Simply get to know who your neighbors are, discuss ways to keep your home from being burglarized and report any suspicious activity, vehicle or person to the police, constable or sheriff's department.

For more information about how you can get involved in National Night Out 2006, visit the Houston Police Department's Website www.houstonpolice.org or call the HPD Public Affairs Division/ Community Services Unit at 713-308-3200.

AW/ MES 7-17-06

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division a 713-308-3200.