Locals participating in National Night Out events next week will not only help make their neighborhoods safer, they’ll have a shot at winning prizes, too.

Brentwood Police Community Serivce Officer Michele Keady said this week that the Brentwood Advisory Neighborhood Committee (BANC) would be making the rounds on Tuesday, Aug. 3 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. along with Brentwood Police Chief Mark Evenson, Mayor Bob Taylor and members of the City Council. BANC members will select the host of one of the events for a special National Night Out Spirit Award, a gift basket containing items donated by Fremont Bank.

Begun in 1984, National Night Out is designed to heighten awareness of crimes and drugs, increase participation in crime-prevention programs, strengthen the partnership between the community and the police, build neighborhood relationships and send a message to criminals that residents are organized, involved and committed to keeping their neighborhoods crime-free.

“We are asking that all residents, Neighborhood Watch participants, concerned citizens, mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers participate by holding a gathering, large or small, and turn on their porch lights,” Keady said. “Have a barbecue, an ice cream social, a dessert exchange – to name a few ideas – and get together and enjoy the company of your neighbors.”

To receive a National Night Out visit from Brentwood officials and have a chance at winning the Spirit Award, contact Keady at 925-809-7780.