Individuals hoping to join in Turlock’s observation of National Night Out have until July 17 to register with the Turlock Police Department.

National Night Out is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 4. It is a national movement designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for local anticrime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.

Residents across the country are asked to leave the confines of their home and step outside and get to know their neighbors. Many neighborhoods host block parties, ice cream socials, barbecues and other special events for the night.

Registered neighborhoods participating in National Night Out may receive a visit from Turlock police or fire officials, CSU Stanislaus police or McGruff the Crime Dog.

In 2014, the City of Turlock won an award from the National Association of Town Watch for an exceptional sixth year of participation in the program. Turlock residents sponsored 32 block parties.

Those who live in neighborhoods that won’t be having a National Night Out event don’t have to be excluded from the fun. The Turlock Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting a National Night Out party at Columbia Park from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 4 with free admission.

Those wanting to register can call Crime Prevention Officer Michelle Backeroff at 656-3153. Block party registration forms need to be returned to the Police Department by no later than July 17, 2015 in order to ensure a visit from the Police Department.