Temporarily escaping the persistent summer heat, families gathered in small groups around Alburtis pool Aug. 7 for Alburtis Police Department's fifth annual National Night Out.

According to the National Association of Town Watch, a nonprofit, crime prevention organization which works in cooperation with thousands of crime watch groups and law enforcement agencies throughout the country, National Night Out was introduced in 1984. The program was the brainchild of NATW Executive Director Matt A. Peskin.

In an effort to heighten awareness and strengthen participation in local anticrime efforts, Peskin felt a high-profile, high-impact type of crime prevention event was needed nationally. At that time, he noted in a typical 'crime watch community,' only 5 to 7 percent of the residents were participating actively.

The first National Night Out was introduced early in 1984 with the event culminating on the first Tuesday in August.

The first year, 400 communities in 23 states participated in National Night Out. Nationwide, 2.5 million Americans took part in 1984.

NATW said the 28th annual National Night Out last August involved 37.1 million people in 15,325 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide.

It was projected over 15,300 communities took part in this year's event Aug. 7. Texas celebrates Oct. 2 each year.

While the traditional 'lights on' and front porch vigils remain a part of NNO, activities have expanded considerably over the years to include block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from police, festivals, neighborhood walks, safety fairs, contests, rallies and meetings.

Peskin said, "It's a wonderful opportunity for communities nationwide to promote police-community partnerships, crime prevention, and neighborhood camaraderie.

"While the one night is certainly not an answer to crime, drugs and violence, National Night Out does represent the kind of spirit, energy and determination that is helping to make many neighborhoods safer places throughout the year. It [NNO] is a night to celebrate safety and crime prevention successes - and to expand and strengthen programs for the next 364 days."

In Alburtis, free grilled hot dogs were served at the snack bar and drinks were available. Kids danced to the live music of Bootleg Express.

There was an entrance fee which was reduced for those bringing a canned goods donation for the Allentown Food Bank.

There were give-a-ways and raffles and sponsors for the event were J.P. Mascaro & Sons, Giant, Frey's Country Store and Hatfield Quality Meats. Supporters were Alburtis Town Watch, Alburtis and Emmaus Volunteer Fire Departments, Alburtis Public Works, Alburtis Borough Council and Alburtis Area Community Center.

For additional information on crime prevention or National Night Out, visit www.nationalnightout.org.