Half Moon Bay Readies for National Night Out

In an effort to combat crime and foster community engagement, Half Moon Bay residents and business owners are encouraged to participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 6. 

National Night Out is part of the national campaign to raise crime prevention awareness, strengthen neighborhood spirit and unity, and foster community-police partnerships, held annually on the first Tuesday in August.

The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Department, Half Moon Bay Chamber of Commerce, and CAL Fire ─ Coastside Fire Protection District will host National Night Out at Mac Dutra Park at Main and Kelly streets in Half Moon Bay from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 

The event will include information on forming a Neighborhood Watch program, the Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT), and other safety tips.

“The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Department, CAL Fire ─ Coastside Fire Protection District, and Chamber of Commerce are proud to bring National Night Out back to Half Moon Bay,” said Lt. Lisa Williams of the Sheriff’s Coastside Patrol Bureau. “Having a healthy and open partnership between law enforcement and the community builds a stronger and safer Half Moon Bay. We encourage all residents and their families to come out and participate in this positive community experience.” 

National Night Out was first organized in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and this year is the 30th anniversary of the program. NATW has consistently provided community members with knowledge and information on everything from organizing Community Watch groups to general tips for overall crime prevention.

NATW started their National Night Out Campaign as a way for community members to come together with local law enforcement in order to have a dialogue and band together to keep their streets safe and free from crime. Throughout the country, neighbors will come out to meet one another and engage with local law enforcement to discuss local concerns regarding crime and public safety. NATW estimates that the event has grown to include over 37 million people, from 15,000 communities, in 23 states across this country.