By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

PELHAM – A great opportunity for those in the Pelham community to interact with the Pelham police and fire departments through a meet and greet, view department vehicles, equipment and more will take place at the first of October.

The Pelham police and fire departments will be hosting the third annual National Night Out on Tuesday, Oct. 1 from 6-8 p.m. at the Pelham Publix and the public is invited to attend.

National Night Out is an annual campaign designed to promote community partnerships between citizens and their public safety providers and promote neighborhood spirit. The community building campaign promotes neighborhood camaraderie, heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and to help make neighborhoods and communities better and safer.

The family friendly event will be free and will give the public an opportunity to meet their local police officers and firefighters, see the emergency vehicles and equipment used daily in the city of Pelham and the opportunity to purchase food and beverages and more.

Several other local cities participated in National Night Out back on Aug. 6, as it is meant to “enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community,” according to the organization. It also provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances and generate support for local anti-crime efforts.

Other highlights of the Pelham National Night Out event will include public safety demonstrations, free food and many giveaways.

For more information on National Night Out, visit Natw.org.