Operation Blockwatch
Does your neighborhood have a Blockwatch program? This can be
a great resource for improving the security in your community. Blockwatch programs are
great for getting to know your neighbors, as well as understanding the crime levels around
your home. Local police departments will be helpful in planning and presenting a program
and can even provide additional materials.
What Blockwatch is Not:
- Blockwatch doesn't require you to perform any special tasks, go to
a lot of meetings, or take on extra responsibilities. You don't have to patrol the
neighborhood, or chase burglars. Blockwatch just involves being alert to your
neighborhood.
- You can still conduct your life in privacy. All it requires is
that you and your neighbors be familiar enough with each other to know who belongs in the
neighborhood and who doesn't; which cars are a part of the neighborhood and which aren't;
and when something suspicious is going on.
- Blockwatch isn't only for home owners. One aspect of the
program--upgrading home security--is more easily implemented if you own the home, since
you would need to get the landlord's permission to make changes such as installing new
locks
How to Set Up a Blockwatch Program
- Determine which houses will be invited to participate in the
Blockwatch. Normally, a "Block" includes the houses on both sides of the street,
from one corner to the other. However, the configuration of a Blockwatch can vary
depending on the local geography
- Let everyone know that a Blockwatch meeting will be scheduled
within the next few weeks, and encourage them to attend. You may wish to check with them
about which weekday evenings would be best for them.
- Identify several possible meeting dates. Blockwatch meetings are
usually held in the evenings.
- Determine where the meeting will be held. If you are unable to
host it in your home, check with other residents who would be.
- When you have determined where the meeting could be held, and
possible meeting dates, call your local Crime Prevention Coordinator for your area. They
will be part of the Police Department. Don't call 911 to reach the police department. You
can find their local number in the front of a phone book.
- Meeting invitations and reminder notices will be provided to you
at least one week in advance of the meeting. Please distribute them to your neighbors
promptly.
A Crime Prevention Coordinator will conduct the meeting and provide literature for
residents.
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Blockwatch
