Community Watch Connects Neighbors to Safeguard Homes

While we all joke about good fences making good neighbors, the opposite is actually true. We prefer to live by the old Eastern European proverb that reminds us that good neighbors increase the value of our property.  Neighborliness is the crux of the Community Watch program. When residents unite to reduce crime, they improve the neighborhood, forge friendships, increase homeowner satisfaction, and, ultimately, enhance property values. With an average two police officers for every 1000 citizens, having an extra set of eyes in every home is a big bonus. The premise of Community Watch is simple: keep an eye on the neighborhood and dial 911 if you see anything suspicious. That’s it.  Community Watch capitalizes on the power of invested citizens–families in the neighborhood–to put criminals on notice: People are watching and you’re not welcome here.

5 Easy Steps to Creating a Community Watch Program in Your Association 

1. Contact the Crime Prevention Office of your local law enforcement agency about setting up a program. (S)He’ll support you with invaluable information, materials and advice. 
2. Schedule a meeting for your neighborhood in a home, church, community center, volunteer fire department or clubhouse. 
3. Invite your local Crime Prevention Officer to speak at your meeting to outline the basics of the program.
4. Invite all the residents of your neighborhood using email, fliers, phone calls and visits. 
5. Hold your meeting and watch the ideas flow...and grow. 

The Officer will introduce your neighborhood to smart strategies including advice on securing the home; recommendations for marking, cataloguing and photographing valuables, tips for  identifying criminals such as drug dealers, and guidance on developing effective child safety programs.

According to Paul Mengert, President of Association Management Group (AMG), one of the Carolinas’ largest professional homeowner association managers with five offices in North and South Carolina, the bottom line is peace of mind. “Criminals stay where the pickings are easy, and avoid neighborhoods where they’re likely to be caught,” he said. “A Community Watch program is an effective and easy way to prevent criminals from feeling at home in your community. It connects residents for a common cause: to preserve a happy and healthy environment where people feel safe. It’s all about being a good neighbor, and it works.”

For AMG’s Guide to a Safer Home, email jpaz@amgworld.com.

This article, published by Association Management Group, is designed to help discourage crime. For more information, consult your local police department. Association Management Group has taken care in the preparation of this article, but the information should not be solely relied on to make safety and security decisions. Please consult a qualified expert or professional for advice about your particular situation.