Meet your neighbors at National Night Out in Houston

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Today marks the 31st anniversary of National Night Out, an evening to promote crime prevention in communities across the county.

Here in Houston, as in other communities, neighbors are encouraged to do one simple thing: spend time with one another.

Think block parties, cookouts, and neighborhood walks. The philosophy behind National Night Out is rooted in building stronger communities side-by-side with our neighbors. It's about building personal connections.

Tonight, residents are encouraged to turn on their porch lights, lock their doors, and spend the evening outside with their neighbors, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other community organizations.

Organizers say that National Night Out is one of the easiest ways to strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships.

"There's no more effective crime prevention tool than one neighbor looking out for another; and communicating with the law enforcement officers that have to protect their neighborhoods," Houston Police Chief Charles McCelland said.

National Night Out Celebrations in Your Area

The Harris County Sheriff's Office says there will be celebrations planned in the following communities:

Yaupon Ranch HOA