Get Neighborly on National Night Out

Barbecues, ice cream socials and getting to know your neighbors are all on tap Tuesday night when Manhattan Beach residents step out to participate in the 29th Annual National Night Out, joining neighbors in all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world.

In MB, neighbors can participate from 5 to 10 p.m. There is no need to register; just organize your own event.

Five Neighborhood Watch groups in MB have registered, meaning they will receive visits from MB Police Officer Stephanie Martin, who handles the NW program for MBPD, and Chief of Police Eve Irvine.

National Night Out was initiated to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for and participation in local anti-crime efforts, such as Neighborhood Watch; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

It's easy to participate in National Night Out by turning on your porch lights and mingling, even if your block isn't officially participating.

Martin said MB has 500 registered Neighborhood Watch groups and there's always room for more. 

When a Neighborhood Watch group registers with the police department, they are partnering with professionals who will offer them guidance on how to help ensure a safe and safer neighborhood.

Call 310-802-5183 if you'd like to know more about Neighborhood Watch and organizing an NW group.