More than 10,000 Kent residents across the East Hill, West Hill and in the Valley are expected to participate Tuesday, Aug. 6 in National Night Out (NNO), a nationwide program aimed at reducing crime by neighbors getting to know each other.

“It is America’s night out against crime,” said Sara Wood, Kent Police public education specialist. “It encourages neighborhoods to come together over a barbecue, potluck, dessert, or just put lawn chairs in a cul-de-sac and talk. Get to know each other. Know which kids live where. Become familiar with who drives what cars.

“The idea that the more familiar you are with your neighbors, the easier it is to identify suspicious behavior and people. It also improves communication among and between neighbors and encourages improved awareness.”

There were 110 events on National Night Out last year in Kent and a similar number is expected this year, Wood said. The registration deadline is Friday, Aug. 2. Go to kentwa.gov/content.aspx?id=4916.

Kent’s Target store supports the even each year with giveaways and employees visit neighborhood gatherings. More than 80 city staff, state legislators, other officials and Target employees are expected to take part in the visits.

“The excitement shown by neighborhoods in their planning and the actual events is inspiring,” Wood said. “Kent’s Block Watch program is growing in popularity and NNO is a great way to kick off a Block Watch.”

The first National Night Out in 1994 drew 2.5 million Americans across 400 communities in 23 states. Now the program involves more than 37 million people and 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. Territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide.

Kent Police Chief Ken Thomas said NNO is a great way to remind residents to be looking out for crime all year.

“National Night Out happens just once a year but we hope it encourages yearlong interaction and communication between neighbors,” Thomas said. “Kent officers will be out visiting events across Kent the night of National Night Out to give us a chance to thank members of our community for making Kent a great and safe place.”