Safety on all Newport corners

Newport Beach police are asking residents to join them tonight for local activities linked to National Night Out, which offers several informational and fun activities aimed at fighting crime.

Costa Mesa police, who haven’t sponsored National Night Out activities for a few years, hope to get it back on track next year, Sgt. Bryan Glass said recently.

The national event invites residents to lock their doors, keep their lights on, get to know each other and their local police officers.

Newport Beach residents are invited to the Bonita Canyon Sports Park for a community barbecue where police will discuss drug prevention, home safety and security with officers working in details like Crime Scene Investigations, SWAT, Animal Control, and the K-9 unit.

The department has planned crafts, face painting and a visit from “McGruff, the crime dog,” character, so parents won’t want to leave their cameras at home. And after taking a few cute pictures, parents will want to grab the free child identification tag kits from the police.

Residents will also be invited to join the Citizen’s Police Academy or volunteer in some other capacity.

“It is a great opportunity for the community to come out and speak with some officers and build on the strong relationships we have and get to know the employees of the department on a personal basis,” Chief John Klein said, adding that National Night Out events often give residents the opportunity to discuss quality-of-life or crime issues and give officers a chance to address those concerns.

“Anytime you get to meet someone on a personal level, when an issue comes up you feel more comfortable,” Klein said.

Newport Beach firefighters will man the grills as they dish out the hot dogs and hamburgers.

Costa Mesa City Councilwoman Katrina Foley said she looks forward to any reinstatement of the program in her city as it improves the city’s communication with residents.

Any similar event, like “Concerts in the Park” or the neighborhood cleanup this past Sunday, benefit the city just by bringing together city leaders and residents.

For more information about Newport’s event call the Crime Prevention Unit at (949) 644-3699.