Get to Know Cranford Police at National Night Out

Each year the Cranford Police Department participates in National Night Out and this year marks the 30th anniversary of the event in Cranford.

National Night Out is a nationwide event that promotes involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and sends a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime, according to the department.

This year’s National Night Out will take place on Aug. 6 at the intersection of North Avenue and Springfield Avenue in the vicinity of the gazebo. 

Det. Robert Montague is coordinating Cranford’s National Night Out event.

The night will include a DJ, face painting, a magician and literature and giveaways provided by Robert Wood Johnson and the Westfield YMCA. The Cranford Taekwondo center will also conduct a free demonstration. Members of the Cranford PBA Local #52 will be on hand to give out free Italian ices to all in attendance.
NNO is an excellent opportunity for the community to interact with public safety personnel in an informal setting, Police Chief Eric Mason said. 

“Although we are tasked with watching over and protecting this community,” he stated, “we want to stress very much that we are part of this community.  We all have a vested interest in working together to keep our neighborhoods and our downtown safe for everybody.”  

This will be the fifth year that Cranford will host a blood drive at the event in recognition of the Cranford Police Department, Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services.

Cranford PBA Local #52 will serve as host for the drive, which runs from 5-9 p.m.in Municipal Lot # 1 next to the firehouse. To schedule an appointment to donate at this event, call 201-251-3703 or simply show up for the drive.  

"This annual drive is a convenient way for Cranford residents to make a blood donation in their own community at a great community event," said PBA President Steven D'Ambola.  "We hope to see anyone able to support our efforts on August 6th."

Those who wish to donate blood, must weigh more than 110 pounds, be in generally good health and have identification that includes a signature.

Have you attended National Night Out in Cranford? What’d you think?