Oakdale Neighborhoods Will Team Up with Law Enforcement for 'Night to Unite' Event

Oakdale law enforcement might be roaming your neighborhoods soon — and that's a good thing. 

Neighborhoods across the nation are invited to join Minnesota's Third Annual "Night to Unite" event (also celebrated as National Night Out) on Tuesday, Aug. 7.

Both NNO and NU are crime prevention events that celebrate and strengthen neighborhood and community partnerships. Police, fire and emergency personnel will also attend a neighborhood block party if requested.

Oakdale typically hosts 15-20 block parties celebrating NNO and NU each year. Last year, more than 37 million people participated in the NNO campaign, according to its website. 

If you would like to have your local law enforcement stop by your party then you can fill out an application form at the city's website requesting any of the following: police, fire, ambulance, McGruff, a Gear Demo, career discussion or a crime prevention topic. If you plan on blocking off your street for your event then you must also submit another application 10 days before the event.

"The most important element is to come together with a common theme of crime prevention and get to know your neighbors in a social environment," said Oakdale Police Spokeswoman Michelle Stark. 

Stark also offers some tips for hosting a successful NU/NNO block party:

• Select a theme that fits your neighborhood. Some block parties have a carnival atmosphere with jumpy tents and kid-friendly activites while others do a backyard barbeque. 
• Invite a special guest, whether a local police officer or a city official.
• Keep it simple. Don't let it become a chore. Keep it within your neighborhood lifestyle.
• Seek help by selecting block party co-captains from your neighborhood.