'National Night Out' Comes to Scotch Plains, Fanwood Tuesday

The Scotch Plains and Fanwood police departments will host annual "National Night Out" events on Tuesday as a way to bring residents together and raise awareness about crime prevention.

The introduction of National Night Out, “America’s Night Out Against Crime”, in 1984 began an effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. 

In Scotch Plains, there will be demonstrations from the K-9 Unit, SPPD Officers assigned to the UC SWAT Team, patrol vehicles and motorcycle from 6 to 9 p.m., on the Village Green. Also, kids can play on the "Vertical Rush" obstacle course and jump around in a pirate funhouse, sponsored by the Espaland Group - Allstate Agency on South Avenue. Enjoy a hot dog from Kevin's Dogs or some cotton candy. Hometown band the Broadcasters will be playing till 9 p.m. Front Street, between Senger and Park will be closed. There will be Officers on Park Avenue, near the municipal building directing traffic and assisting pedestrians across the street. 

In Fanwood, the festivities run from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in LaGrande Park and coincide with the borough's free outdoor movie night showing of "Oz the Great and Powerful" (PG). The event will offer free food, games, prizes, face-painting and raffles. The night is hosted by the Fanwood Police Department, Fanwood PBA, Fanwood Fire Department and Fanwood Rescue Squad.