Neighborhood Watch Meaning

Neighborhood Watch groups join forces with local law enforcement to deter crime.

Neighborhood Watch, whose members (with the support of local law enforcement) work to deter crime by volunteering to provide surveillance in their neighborhoods, was founded in 1972, according to the National Crime Prevention Council. (See Reference 1)

Homeowners' Associations

In a housing community such as a homeowners' association, Neighborhood Watch members are residents who are vigilant about activity in their neighborhood. Unusual or possibly criminal activities that are observed are reported to the police.

Crime Prevention

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, Neighborhood Watch is the most effective program in the country in which residents and law enforcement work together to deter crime.

Criteria

Before a Neighborhood Watch group is formed, members must have a relationship with local law enforcement in place, according to USA On Watch. (See Reference 2) USA On Watch is a website maintained by the National Sheriffs' Association to support Neighborhood Watch programs.

Participants

Individual residents can join a Neighborhood Watch group, as well as people representing businesses, organizations and government agencies. (See Reference 2) Anybody who wants to increase the safety of the neighborhood in which they work and live can join.

Warning

Membership in a Neighborhood Watch program does not mean taking personal action when a crime is observed. It means observing suspicious activity and reporting it to the police so they will be able to take appropriate action. The National Crime Prevention Council states that Neighborhood Watch group members are not vigilantes.

References

• National Crime Prevention Council: Neighborhood Watch
• USA On Watch: FAQ