Communities across Southern Maryland last night locked their doors and headed into the streets for some good old fashioned family fun to take a stand against crime.

The national event takes place each year and is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Cities, towns and neighborhoods celebrated National Night Out with a variety of events and activities that included front porch vigils, block parties, cookouts, parades, exhibits, contests and of course, visits from local police and sheriff departments.

Photographer John Douglass stopped by Southampton Drive and Bristol Avenue, Cherry Cove Land Development Office, Lexington Village and South Essex.