The Farmville Police Department is encouraging residents and businesses to begin planning for National Night Out, which is set for Tuesday, Aug. 2.

According to a department press release, last year citizens took an impressive stand in the fight against crime by holding eight events in neighborhoods across town, earning Farmville 17th place nationally in areas with a population of 15,000 or less.

Farmville residents can celebrate the fight against crime by hosting neighborhood block parties that bring neighbors, communities and the police department together, the release stated.

National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug-prevention awareness, develop and strengthen partnerships between police and residents and generate support for anti-crime programs, such as Neighborhood Watch, Crime Solvers and Business Watch.

For more information, contact the department at (434) 392-9259 or call Detective Sgt. C.W. Moss at (434) 392-2109.