On the first Tuesday in October, Ballwin and Winchester residents can celebrate National Night Out with their neighbors. On that night, residents are invited to turn on their porch lights, go outside, and join with their neighbors in block parties, cookouts, flashlight walks, and other activities to send the message to criminals that residents are organized and fighting back against crime.

National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and generate support for local anticrime programs, such as Neighborhood Watch. National Night Out celebrations also help strengthen neighborhood spirit, because alert and caring neighbors are one of your best defenses against crime.

In Ballwin and Winchester, National Night Out is celebrated with city officials, along with representatives from the police and fire departments who will circulate through the city and visit neighborhood National Night Out celebrations. Residents who cannot participate in organized activities are still encouraged to turn on exterior lights and spend some time outside that evening.

To schedule a visit from the police department or inquire about more information on how to plan a National Night Out event please contact the Ballwin Police Community Affairs Unit at 636-227-9636 or police@ballwin.mo.us.