Why a Block Watch?
When you hear the words “Block Watch” or “Neighborhood Watch”, you might first think of nebby old folks who bother people on the street, or call the police every time they see a teenager walking around. In reality, it’s a much simpler and less intrusive thing.
The Block Watch is nothing more than a fancy way of saying that neighbors look out for neighbors. It’s sole function is to encourage all residents to keep a watchful eye out for suspicious behavior or criminal activity, and to report this to the Police. Block Watch members are not vigilantes, and they’re imbued with no special powers.
Nonetheless, a Block Watch is one of the most effective anti-crime tools a neighborhood can implement.
How can I take part?
If you’re part of the Block Club and you’ve got some eyes, you’re well on your way. Here are a few ways to help:
- Report suspicious activity to the Police, as well as other club members so they can keep an eye out
- Turn your Porch Lights on from Dusk til Dawn
- Report overgrowth, damage to public areas, nuisance trash, etc. to the Block Club so it can be dealt with
- Participate in Club Events to better know your neighbors
What should I look for?
Our neighborhood is blessed with minimal crime, but we still have some challenges to address. Keep an eye out for these things:
- Dumping – our Park and some abandoned homes are sometimes used to dump difficult to get rid of items (such as mattresses or tires) or stolen items (shopping carts, purses, etc). Cleaning up our Park, restoring public lighting, and encouraging private lighting from Porches and decks will go a long way to reducing this. Always keep an eye out for this activity, which unfairly devalues our neighborhood.
- Abandoned Vehicles – this is a nuisance which, like dumping, clutters the neighborhood and makes it look poor. Note vehicles that are left sitting for long periods of time, have no tags, or sit on deflated tires in public areas.
- Unlocked Cars – opportunistic criminals move around at night, checking car doors. Simply locking your car is generally enough to keep you safe, so be sure to lock up and keep an eye out for folks trying door handles.