Q: What are Block Watches, and how can I participate?
A: A Block Watch is:

• Becoming acquainted with your neighbors.
• Working together to solve problems in your neighborhood.
• Helping the police by being aware of and reporting unusual activities as they occur.  You know what is "normal" activity in your neighborhood.
• Learning to prevent and detect crime in your neighborhood and taking the necessary steps to make it safer (i.e utilizing locks, lighting, security systems, etc.)
• REPORTING suspicious persons, NOT apprehending them -- leave that for the police.
• Looking out for your neighbors and each other.

Q: Why Organize A Block Watch?
A: Since the police are unable to cover every neighborhood at all times, you can help by forming a Neighborhood Block Watch. You and your neighbors can stay safe by looking out for one another. There is strength and safety in numbers as
well as being an extra set of eyes and ears for the police department.

How to form a Block Watch:

Step #1:  Contact your neighbors from corner to corner and both sides of the street.

Step #2:  Ask your neighbors when would it be a good time for them to be present for a
Blockwatch meeting; Weekdays or weekends?  Weekdays - schedule the block watches
at 6:30 P.M. or 7:00 P.M.

    Topics include:

Benefits of the Block Watch

Co-Captain's Responsibilities

Crime Statistics in your Area

Support Programs

Burglary Prevention
 

Step #3: Contact the Crime Prevention Unit (203) 937-3570 to schedule your Block Watch meeting. A cover sheet with instructions, Block Watch pamphlet and generic flyer will be sent to assist you in organizing your meeting.

Step #4: To begin the Block Watch meeting, the Crime Prevention Officer arrives and conducts a presentation.

Step #5: The officer takes questions and comments, then leaves; the participants are encouraged to socialize after the officer leaves.

Q: Why do Block Watches work?

A: Looking out for each other always works.  It worked a hundred years ago and it is still working today.  Block Watches began many years ago when the Pioneers worked together to protect their early settlements.  Today, the Block Watch concept can bring your neighbors together for the common goal of making your neighborhood a safer place to live.  You and your neighbors are safer when you look out for each other.

YOU could be the one to make a difference. Call 937-3570 today to schedule a block watch for your neighborhood.

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