National Night Out, a crime prevention and preparedness event, will be held for the sixth consecutive year on Mercer Island on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

The organized event has been held for the past 30 years across the nation, involving more than 15,000 communities from all 50 states. In Washington state, 70 cities and counties participate in the event. The event was held in 28 Mercer Island neighborhoods last year.

National Night Out brings neighbors together to increase crime prevention awareness; generate support for family emergency preparedness; and strengthen neighborhood spirit and community partnerships.

The event is also an opportunity for families and neighbors to meet each another, get to know each other better and become familiar with the faces of neighbors and city officials.

From 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6, Mercer Island residents are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors, police and fire, city officials and city staff.

Many Island neighborhoods will be hosting a variety of special events such as block parties, cookouts, visits from police, fire and city officials, flashlight walks, contests and youth activities.

To register your neighborhood for National Night Out, please contact Officer Jennifer Franklin at (206) 275-7905 or email jennifer.franklin@mercergov.org and ask to be placed on the registration list.

For additional information, go to: www.mercergov.org/emergencyprep.