National Night Out Returns to Los Altos

For the sixth consecutive year, police in Los Altos are partnering with citizens and neighborhood watch groups to fight back against crime and drugs as part of the annual National Night Out program which takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. today, Aug. 7.

Under the program, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, and co-sponsored locally by the Los Altos Police Department, Los Altos residents are encouraged to get out into their neighborhoods and meet their neighbors, nearby merchants, and local police officers.

“The focus is to celebrate the collaboration of the police department and the community to combat crime,” said Josh Cottrell, a community service officer with Los Altos Police who is coordinating this year’s local event.

Cottrell said there will be 12 venues set up throughout the city where people can gather to meet neighbors, Neighborhood Watch captains, and local police in an informal and festive setting. The gatherings will include food, entertainment, and information on how people can work together to combat crime and drug activity in their neighborhoods.

While most gatherings will be small neighborhood affairs at private residences or neighborhood blocks, Cottrell said larger gatherings will be at and at where 200 adults and 150 children are expected to participate.

New this year will be representatives from the Santa Clara County Fire Department who will provide fire safety and emergency preparedness information at selected gatherings.

Nationally, more than 9,700 communities in all 50 states and U.S. territories are expected to hold National Night Out gatherings. In addition, selected cities in Canada and military bases around the world will also participate.

The National Night Out program started almost 30 years ago as a festive way to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships for a safer nation. Its goals include:

• Heightening crime and drug prevention awareness
• Generating support and participation in local anti-crime efforts
• Strengthening  neighborhood spirit and community-police relations
• Sending a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back

There is no cost for local residents to attend any of the gatherings. For details about the program, or specific party locations, call Josh Cottrell at Los Gatos Police, 408-947-2775.

-- Patch Staff

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