Arlington received a 5^th place national ranking for 2012 National Night Out among cities with more than 300,000 residents. News of the ranking was announced this week and the Arlington Police Department is very proud of this achievement as the only North Texas community to place in the top 5.

Each year on the first Tuesday in October, public safety officials encourage residents to turn on their porch lights and spend some time outside getting to know their neighbors. Over the years, the parties have grown into neighborhood events filled with food and fun for children and adults alike. Arlington Police Officers and Firefighters visit as many of the neighborhood parties as possible to share safety messages with residents. The Arlington Police Department Crime Prevention Unit works closely with neighborhood organizers to learn where National Night Out gatherings will occur and encourages our many community partners to participate. Those include Community Watch Groups, Citizens On Patrol, Arlington Citizen Police Academy Alumni, and Arlington Clergy and Police Partnership.

Everyone plays a role in creating safe communities and improving neighborhood vitality. The contributions of Arlington residents and businesses are what help this city succeed. With the announcement of the 5^th place ranking, we have been spreading the word to the many neighborhoods that hosted 2012 National Night Out gatherings and are thanking them for participating.

Watch the 2012 National Night Out video created by the Crime Prevention Unit.

Check out more videos on the Arlington Police Department's YouTube Channel.

National Night Out rankings for city's with a population greater than 300,000

1. Minneapolis, MN
2. San Antonio, TX
3. Houston/Harris County, TX
4. Austin, TX
5. Arlington, TX
6. Chesterfield County, VA
7. Los Angeles, CA
8. Columbus, OH
9. Collin County, TX
10. Henrico County, VA