Bookmark & ShareThe National Night Out program, also known as America's Night Out, is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch . It began in 1984 and is held on the first Tuesday night in August. In 1999 there were 32 million people, in 9500 communities from all fifty states, US Territories, and military bases worldwide who participated in National Night Out.
The goal of this program have residents get together in their neighborhoods. Most have picnics and they register their picnics with the Crime Prevention Unit. While they are at the picnic they "turn their lights on to turn off crime." During the evening the Mayor, members of the City Council, and McGruff visit as many of the picnics as they can.
The City of Rochester has made significant improvements in their participation in this program. In 1999 they increased participation by over 100%. There were over 150 picnics registered with over 5,000 participants.
If you would like more information on the National Night Out program or would like to assist with the event contact the Crime Prevention Unit or call them at (507)328-6898.