Starting a NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH Group

You’ve heard about the benefits of NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH participation. You suspect—or know—that there is a crime problem in your area. How do you get a program started in your neighbourhood?

FIRSTLY

Form a small planning committee of neighbors to discuss needs, the level of interest, and possible problems. Decide on a date and place for an initial NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH meeting.

NEXT…

Contact your local law enforcement agency. Request that a crime prevention officer come to a meeting of your group in the near future to discuss NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH and help assess your community’s problems and needs. Inquire about crime statistics for your area, but bear in mind that crime is typically underreported. Ask that the officer bring to your meeting a list of local contacts including the Portsmouth Community Watch Foundation that will assist you in organizing and keeping your program going along with samples of NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH signs, decals, and literature.

FINALLY…

Contact as many of your neighbors as possible, asking them:

• If they feel at risk of being burglarized or being the victim of other crimes;
• If they have taken any steps to protect their homes; and
• If they would be willing to attend a meeting to organize a NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH group in your area.

You may be surprised to learn how many of your neighbors’ lives have already been touched by crime!