What Are You Doing Next Tuesday?

Next Tuesday night is America's Crime Prevention Party called "National Night Out" which is a neighbors-meeting-neighbors opportunity to enhance our community resilience.  It is commonly known that in neighborhoods that have strong ties with each other, crime statistics go down and people illustrate a higher level of care for each other during crisis.

This year, there are several National Night Out events here in Clark County:

Ridgefield's Event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 2 at Davis Park, from 6:00 p.m. to 8 p.m.  If you've never been, it's fun event with a free barbeque and games.  If you would like to have a booth at the event, contact Kay Kammer at the City of Ridgefield, 887-3557.  CRESA is excited to participate in this exciting event.

La Center's Event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 2nd at Holley Park, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Community groups and city employees will be assisting in the festivities which include free food, police car and fire truck displays.

Yacolt's Event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 2nd at Yacolt Town Park from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  This event will have a community barbeque and an opportunity to meet the Mayor and other town officials.

If you are on Facebook, the Vancouver Police Department asked community members to share information about National Night Out events going on in the city.  Remember, you don't have to attend a specific event to enhance the preparedness in your own neighborhoods.

Here are some great ways to get outside and meet your neighbors:

• Barbeque in your front yard instead of your backyard
• Play sports in your street (safely, of course)
• Meet your neighbors when you see them at the mailbox
• Conduct a "Map Your Neighborhood" meeting with the neighbors on your street
• Find out if your neighborhood has community meetings
• Clark County Neighborhood Associations
• City of Vancouver Office of Neighborhoods  

Remember, the people who live closest to your may be your key lifeline in a disaster or local crisis.  Reach out today before that happens.