Neighborhood Watch Group - How to Start

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HOW TO START A NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH GROUP You've heard about the benefits of NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH participation. You suspect — or know — that there is a crime problem in your area. How do you get a program started in your neighborhood? FIRST.... Form a small planning committee of neighbors to discuss needs, the level of interest, and possible problems. Decide on a date and place for an initial NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH meeting. NEXT... Contact your local law enforcement agency. Request that a crime prevention officer come to a meeting of your group in the near future to discuss NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH and help assess your community's problems and needs. Inquire about crime statistics for your area, but bear in mind that crime is typically under -reported. Ask that the officer bring to your meeting a list of local and national contacts that will assist you in organizing and keeping your program going along with samples of NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH signs, decals, and literature. FINALLY... Contact as many of your neighbors as possible, asking them: ® If they feel at risk of being burglarized or being the victim of other crimes; ® If they have taken any steps to protect their homes; and ® If they would be willing to attend a meeting to organize a NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH group in your area. You may be surprised to learn how many of your neighbors' lives have already been touched by crime! Planning for a Successful First Meeting Schedule your kickoff meeting in a place convenient to the neighborhood, such as a private home, church community building, school or library. Contact your police department 10 to 14 days in advance and inform officials of the date and place of the first meeting; verify that an officer will be able to attend. Seek a commitment from an officer to work with your group, and ask the Chief to address a letter to all potential NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH members expressing support.