National Night Out is a free annual event that is sponsored in communities across the country. It seeks to gain awareness on drug and crime safety.
This year, DeKalb police and fire departments will have a simulated 9-1-1 call center and a fire safety house.
Kathy Guyer is a volunteer for the event. She says it’s important for young people to learn best practices in case of emergencies.
"The kids become our ambassadors because they go home and they say, 'Okay, we've got to do this,'" Guyer said.
Guyer says she encourages people to establish communication with officials.
"And once you build those relationships -- then when you have a problem -- you feel more comfortable talking with [or] giving the police department a call," Guyer said.
DeKalb is hosting the event from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in Target's parking lot.
Similar activities are planned for Rockford and Machesney Park.