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How To Start A
Neighborhood Watch Program |
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Neighborhood Watch Programs have been in existence for more than thirty years in cities and counties across America. Launched in 1972, programs like this relays heavily on citizen involvement. Citizens alone cannot make the program work without law enforcement assistance and intervention. However, citizens are not expected to become law enforcement officers. What citizens are expected to do, is to organize among themselves to watch over their particular community. Whenever they see something suspicious or someone acting suspicious, record all the information they can, then call the police.
Now you ask, how can I start a Neighborhood Watch in my block or community. First, someone has to take the initative to start talking with their surrounding neighbors to identify if in fact their are problems. Then, find out just how many are willing to get involved. The next is to call your local law enforcement agency to get them involved. Because without the cooperation of both, citizens and law enforcement, the program will not be effective.
Next, arrange a meeting. Most law enforcement will be glad to host such a meeting. Discuss problems and start identifying solutions. Pick someone from the group to become a block captian. At this point, you're on your way. Individuals who seldom leave their home would make excellent block watchers. But, it's a responsibility to be shared by all. Once everyone understands what makes a Neighborhood Watch work and schedules or watch assignments have been made or decieded on, it's ready to be put to work.
Your law enforcement respresenatative will arrange to have signs placed within your community notifying anyone to beware that you are watching and will call the police. If this sounds like a program you would like to have in your neighborhood, call the Parsons Police Department at (620) 421-7060 and tell them you want to talk to someone about starting a Neighborhood Watch.
