Every year, across the nation, the public is invited to get out of the house on the first Tuesday in August to visit with neighbors and meet the men and women who keep communities safe, as well as see some of the equipment that helps them do it.

Lake Charles

On Tuesday, August 6, from 6 – 9 p.m., the Lake Charles Police Department and City of Lake Charles will host its event at the Lake Charles Event Center, 900 Lakeshore Drive. Enjoy a Kids Zone, giveaways, free popcorn, cotton candy and limited food and drinks.

“Our National Night Out Community Event provides citizens with the opportunity to meet and interact with officers from our many divisions in one location, while gathering important information about a variety of resources available to them, said Lake Charles Police Chief Shawn Caldwell. “It’s a chance for us to hear citizen concerns and build stronger police-community relationships.

Sulphur

Sulphur Police Department’s National Night will include a display of classic cars in addition to first responder vehicles. Enjoy food and drinks at the free event to be held August 6, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the West Cal Arena, 401 Arena Rd.

Westlake

The Westlake Police Department and Fire Department will celebrate National Night Out with barbecue, music, games and more at Freedom Hall, 1000 National Dr., 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

(Don’t miss the opportunity to see the Acadian Ambulance helicopter up close.)

Iowa

The Iowa Police Department and the Town of Iowa is hosting a combo community event: National Night Out Back to School Bash, 6 -8 p.m.  at the Iowa Community Center, 207 W Highway 90/115 N. Thompson Ave.

“We’ll have DJ Crazy Baby, and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is going to have their big toys here,” said  IPD Staff Sgt. Krisit Juarez about the big rigs and equipment the sheriff’s office plans to have on display. “OEP will also be here with information for the public, and we’ll have information on gun safety and elderly safety tips and services.”

Juarez said the event is free. Hot dogs are free. A local church will be giving away bottled water. The Town of Iowa will be giving out school supplies and plan to have a Bouncy House for the kiddos. Local businesses and vendors will offer  crafts, baked goods, snow cones and other items for purchase.

“This event not only gives the police department the opportunity to visit with people in the community, but it’s a chance to support our local businesses too, “ Juarez said.