The Monroe Township Police Department and Emergency Services Department invite residents to join them for a celebration of National Night Out from 7-10 p.m. on Aug. 7 near the lake at Thompson Park.
National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Monroe Township Police Department, will involve more than 11,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. In all, more than 35 million people are expected to participate.
The event is designed to heighten crime- and drug-prevention awareness; generate support for and participation in local anticrime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
Residents in neighborhoods throughout Monroe and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police from 7-10 p.m. on Aug. 7.
The Monroe police, emergency services and fire departments will have their vehicles and equipment on display at Thompson Park. Guests will be able to view police vehicles, the crime-scene van, the radar trailer, fire apparatus and ambulances.
There will be a child-safety-seat inspection station and a bike rodeo, where children will be able ride their bicycles through an obstacle course to test their skills and learn about bike safety. Youngsters should bring their own bicycles and helmets.
Members of the Monroe fire departments will perform an extrication demonstration at 8 p.m. Residents are invited to see how firefighters are able to help a person who is trapped in his or her vehicle. Viewers will then see how township EMS personnel would provide first aid to the injured person.
Daren the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Lion will be on hand. Other highlights will include a “bouncy house,” carnival games, prizes and free food.
In case of rain, the event will take place at Monroe Township High School, Perrineville Road, or call (732) 521-0222, ext. 805.