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Duke Police Host 'National Night Out' Events

Activities are part of Aug. 6 crime prevention campaign

By Bryan Roth

Duke community members can join members of the Duke University Police Department on Aug. 6 to show support for a safer campus community as part of National Night Out, a national crime prevention and awareness event.

As part of National Night Out, Duke Police will host two events to encourage a stronger relationship between police and the communities they serve. It's part of a city-wide effort in Durham.

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"Taking part in National Night Out gives us an opportunity to show how our community can organize and make a difference with Duke Police," said Duke Police Chief John Dailey. "We want to strengthen community spirit, generate support for anti-crime behaviors and heighten crime prevention awareness among students and employees."

Members of the Duke Police crime prevention team will host meet-and-greets throughout Duke. Here's what's planned across campus on Aug. 6:

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Duke Cancer CenterDuke community members can stop by the cafeteria to learn more about Duke Police crime prevention efforts in the Health System and pick up free materials like highlighters and wallet cards with important contact information. Crime prevention officers will offer information about the Vial of Life Project, which provides a free magnet and paperwork to keep on a refrigerator in case of an emergency. Crime Prevention Officer Eric Hester said the paperwork makes it easy for emergency crews to reference medication needs and past health problems. Emergency medical service professionals are trained to recognize logos on the materials.

6 to 8 p.m. at Central CampusCrime prevention officers from Duke Police will visit the Food Factory to provide free engraving services for bicycles and electronic devices like computers and iPhones. Refreshments will be served and visitors will have the chance to chat with officers to learn more about Duke Police and take home free items with police contact information.

"This event benefits our community because it shows how everyone can make a difference," Hester said. "We want to make sure people know they can have a strong relationship with Duke Police."