Neighborhood Watch Program Information

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Your WATCH group can be instrumental in getting such a program off the ground in your area, or can offer assistance to an existing CRIME STOPPERS program by eliciting public, judicial and media support. Seasonal Crime Prevention 'Pips Crime tips are yet another way your group can provide timely information to neighbors in regard to holidays, seasonal changes, or special events. This program is not an expensive one and can be accomplished by simply noting the tips on a postcard and mailing or distributing them throughout the community, or providing them as Public Service Announcements to local radio and TV stations. Telephone 'Trees Telephone trees can help expedite emergency information among your neighbors. Neighborhoods can be divided into small, workable areas using streets or natural boundaries. Each group prepares a chart (which is continuously updated) that includes the names and phone numbers of all members. A Block Captain or other person is designated to be contacted by the police or sheriff's department. Each individual listed on the tree knows whom he is to contact should emergency or other important information need to be disseminated in a hurry. Radio Emergency Associated Communications Teams Owners of two way radios have been shown to be a valuable adjunct to many WATCH groups. REACT team members may monitor CB channel 9, amateur GMRS or other radio frequencies as a public service and pass reports by telephone from their home or office to police, highway patrol, fire, auto club and other agencies. Beautification Projects Your group can organize an effort to remove graffiti, trash, abandoned autos, and other unsightly nuisances from your neighborhood community. Community pride can be enhanced even in impoverished areas by working to make the area more attractive and livable. Research has indicated that improvements of this type can have measurable effects on reducing actual crime as well as the fear of crime among community members. Fire Prevention Programs These and other safety-related programs can be excellent additions to your NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH meetings. Many fire prevention officers are willing to address WATCH groups on such topics as Cardio -Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), disaster preparedness, and fire safety.