You can join the fight against crime today, when the annual crime-fighting event of National Night Out takes place in locations across the city.

More than 150 communities, homeowners’ associations, civic organizations, neighborhoods, churches and business sponsors are partnering to help say “no” to crime.

The idea behind National Night Out is that if folks get outside and get to know their neighbors and local law enforcement officials, they will be stronger at fighting crime together and will present a united front against crime. Any criminal that’s casing a neighborhood might think twice — not only for that night but also for the future — if he sees a bunch of neighbors outside.

National Night Out has evolved over the course of many years here in Suffolk. Some of the celebrations still look much like they once did, with a few neighbors sitting around outside and sharing refreshments. Some celebrations have grown exponentially, like the one that now takes place at King’s Fork Middle School and involves quite a number of surrounding neighborhoods with lots of food, entertainment and activities for the youngsters.

But the core value of National Night Out remains the same, and that’s to fight crime through better police-community partnerships and better relationships among neighbors.

We urge folks in Suffolk to get involved in one of their local celebrations tonight. Most start around 5:30 or 6 p.m. and go until 8 or 9 p.m. You can find more information at suffolknno.com.

If you want a great overview of what National Night Out is all about, the kickoff event is set for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the City Council Chamber at Suffolk City Hall, 442 W. Washington St. Attendees will get to hear from local public safety officials, and those officials will then leave on nine motorcades to visit registered block parties, cookouts and festivals.

Of course, National Night Out is just one night, but every participating community comes up with a “Project 365” theme — a focal point for public safety all year long.

The theme for this year’s celebrations will be Suffolk Police Department’s “Lock It, Don’t Lose It” campaign, in which residents are encouraged to lock their cars and homes to help prevent the crime of theft.

So lock up and head out tonight. We guarantee you’ll be glad you did.