National Night Out at SMU

According to their website, National Night Out (NNO) is an annual community-building campaign promoting police-community partnerships and camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer and more caring places to live. NNO enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community.

How NNO Got its Start

NNO was introduced in August of 1984 through an already established network of police agencies, neighborhood watch groups, civic groups, state and regional crime prevention associations, and volunteers. Since that time, it has expanded nationwide. On the first Tuesday in August, millions of neighbors participate in NNO across communities from all fifty states, U.S. territories, military bases, and college campuses. In Texas, we celebrate the first Tuesday in October due to outdoor temperatures in August. These celebrations take many forms, from neighborhood block parties to festivals, parades, and various other community events. During these, emergency personnel attend and interact with the community or do demonstrations.

NNO on the Hilltop

For a number of years, SMU has been hosting NNO at the flagpole. Along with other campus partners, like the Health Center, Facilities, Dining Services, and Risk Management to name a few, they have provided a fun community event for students and surrounding neighbors. They also partner with University Park Fire Department to do a controlled burn of a mock dorm room. This demonstration allows students to see firsthand the dangers of fire in residence halls, as well as how technology such as fire suppression systems, flame retardant materials and quick response can be effective in protecting life and property

Along with campus and community partners, in the past, there have also been sponsors. Sponsors provided food, prizes, and logistical support to the event. Last year’s sponsors included local businesses; Mi Cocina on McKinney Ave, The Highland Hotel Dallas, The DoubleTree Hotel Campbell Centre, Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse BBQ, Target Stores, Walmart, Hilton Dallas Park Cities, Siemens, AT&T, and Bahama Bucks.

NNO 2022

This year, the NNO tradition will continue. On October 4th, from 5 pm to 7 pm, come out and enjoy the festivities by the flag pole. This year’s event features music with a DJ, food, giveaways, a dunk tank, a dog walk, a simulated dorm room burn exercise with fire safety tips, life-saving techniques, and other important training and prevention demonstrations. Bring your friends, family, and pets out to enjoy the fun.