How to Organize a Neighborhood Watch Program
The Neighborhood Watch Program is an effective way for communities to partner with local law enforcement agencies to ensure everyone's safety. Follow these steps to implement a program in your town.
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Things You'll Need
- Neighborhood map
- Neighborhood Watch signs
- Fliers
- Sign-up sheet
- Meeting place
- Agenda
Instructions
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Plan the Initial Neighborhood Watch Meeting
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1
Form a committee of neighbors to organize the first meeting.
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2
Contact local law enforcement agencies to secure a Crime Prevention Officer to speak at the meeting.
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3
Find a location for the meeting. Community centers, churches or local businesses are good places to start.
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4
Make a list of issues important to the community. Compile data regarding crime rates and statistics for your neighborhood.
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5
Create an agenda for the Neighborhood Watch meeting.
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6
Publicize the meeting throughout the community, using fliers, telephone trees, door-to-door canvassing or email
Stage the Initial Neighborhood Watch Meeting
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7
Provide a sign-up sheet for residents to pledge their involvement.
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8
Map out the neighborhood, with the addresses and contact information of participants.
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9
Involve community leaders, local churches and business professionals. They can speak at meetings and donate their services, like fliers or refreshments.
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10
Purchase Neighborhood Watch signs. Some jurisdictions require a minimum number of watch participants.
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11
Set up a schedule for regular meetings.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Organize a regular schedule of Neighborhood Watch meetings.
Involve shut-ins or elderly neighbors; they can keep tabs on neighborhood activities from their homes.
