Area law enforcement ask citizens to participate in National Night Out

The Iowa City Police Department is asking residents to lock their doors and turn on outside lights Tuesday night. This is all part of the city's 27th annual National Night Out.

More than 36 million people are expected to participate in America's National Night Out Against Crime as local events will be held in 14,625 communities from all 50 states.

The National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness as well as strengthen neighborhood and police partnerships.

“It brings the police and community together,” said Sgt. Denise Brotherton, public information officer for the Iowa City Police Department. “It gives us a chance to interact positively you know just not showing up for that call, showing up for that arrest. But we're there to have fun with the neighborhoods.”

Block parties, cookouts, flashlight walks and other activities are all part of Iowa City's Night Out which is sponsored by Target and Iowa City Area Crimestoppers. Most events run from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. though a party commences at the Broadway Center at 5 p.m.

Iowa City Police Officers will be attending all registered parties to meet neighbors and handout safety information.

Cedar Rapids locations are listed below:

Copy of 35302327 National Night Out 2010