FARMVILLE — It’s time to start planning for National Night Out 2017, which is scheduled to take place Tuesday, Aug. 1. According to a press release, citizens took an impressive stand in the fight against crime last year by holding eight events in neighborhoods across town, earning Farmville 18th place nationally in areas with a population of 15,000 or less.

“Farmville town residents can celebrate the fight against crime by hosting neighborhood block parties that bring neighbors, communities and the police department together,” officials said in the release. “McGruff, the crime dog, and police department members will visit neighborhoods hosting these events.”

The release cited that event hosts are asked to contact the Farmville Police Department with plans for their event by July 21.

“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,” officials said in the release.

To learn more about National Night Out and how to plan a neighborhood event, contact the Farmville Police Department at (434) 392-9259.