What is a Neighborhood Watch? - Presented by Sgt. Todd Leach
It is informing the Police of problems in the neighborhood. It's a proven to be an effective means of gathering information where neighbors are able to get involved and keep the police informed.
Neighborhood watches can help with not only crime, but other issues as well such as codes, animal control, etc.
Use common sense: If someone is out of town in your neighborhood, watch their home for anything unusual.
Benefits of a Neighborhood Watch
Having a watch helps you to get to know you neighbor. You're more likely to help each other if there is an unspoken accountability toward one another. The more people involved the better, there are strength in numbers.
Neighborhood watch is not a vigilante organization. Citizens are not equipped to handle criminals. Observation skills are important. Take good notes, write down what you see, it can be incredibly important. This is especially helpful for drug deals that may be happening in your neighborhood. Do NOT attempt to get in the middle of it, call the police and get some descriptions of cars, people, anything you may have heard or seen.
Keys to success of a neighborhood watch: Participate and meet on a regular basis. You'll want to keep interest up and make sure the everyone knows the phone numbers to call should an emergency arise.
