Countywide : ‘Night Out’ Event to Help Prevent Crime

Police from across Orange County will join the Sheriff’s Department in hosting a “Night Out” against crime from 7 to 10 tonight at the Tustin Marine Corps Air Station.

The event will end a series of activities in Orange County and around the nation that began Tuesday with “National Night Out.”

Residents in every city were asked to keep their lights on and mingle outdoors in an effort for citizens to “take back the night.”

“It is our going-away party to crime,” said Cpl. Adam Catan, crime prevention officer at the base.

“We like to think about it as everybody’s night out.”

The police and sheriff’s departments decided to have their event on a weekend night to make it easier for residents to attend, Catan said.

Everything from food to information is free of charge, he said. Prizes will be given away throughout the evening, and a disc jockey will provide music.

Police from Irvine, Orange, Tustin, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach and Anaheim have coordinated informational activities.

Law enforcement officers will demonstrate some of their skills, and Sparky, a dog trained for firefighting, will perform.

Children 6 to 12 are encouraged to enter the event’s poster contest.

They should bring a poster with a crime prevention theme and submit it by 8 p.m. to compete for a prize.

Brinks Home Security will join police in offering information on home and neighborhood security.

Parents can have their children fingerprinted and also learn tips on bicycle safety.

Gates will open for parking at the base, off Edinger and Red Hill avenues, at 6:45 p.m.