Neighborhood Watch is a crime prevention program designed to increase neighborhood livability by reducing crime and the fear of crime through education and communication. Just as important, Neighborhood Watch helps build a sense of connectedness on your block as you become familiar with your neighbors and the activities on your block.
By organizing Neighborhood Watch on your block you will:
Be able to recognize and report suspicious activity.
Learn ways to increase your home's security.
Benefit from a block map and telephone tree system.
Be part of a positive relationship with your neighbors and the Police Department.
What are the major components of Neighborhood Watch?
Communication: A quick phone call, email or simple block newsletter are different ways to stay in touch with your neighbors. The way you communicate is not as important as just making the effort to share info about what is happening on the block and letting each other know when something or someone is out of place. Communication with the Police Department is also important. Maintain regular discussions with the Crime Prevention Officer or your district officer.
Neighborhood Meetings: Regular get-togethers can prove useful. You can have them bi-monthly or quarterly. The purpose is to have an opportunity to discuss what is going on in the area and express any concerns you may have. The Crime Prevention Officer can provide topics and/or information for the meetings.
Neighborhood Watch Patrol: Neighbors may choose to team up to walk, bike or drive through the neighborhood and alert police to crime and suspicious activities.
Special Events: Keep the neighborhood going and growing with fun activities that bring you and your neighbors together. Events don't have to be large-scale productions! They can be block parties, such as National Night Out, or they could be opportunities to spruce up the neighborhood park. Call the Crime Prevention Unit for more ideas at 503-588-6175.
How Do I Get Started?
Step 1: Contact the Salem Police Department Crime Prevention Officer at 503-588-6175. Staff will be able to inform you if a Neighborhood Watch group is already established in your area and get your connected. If no group exists, the officer will explain the easy set up process and send you a "start up" packet.
Step 2: Talk to your neighbors to determine their interest in starting a group. Use the Block List form from the start up packet to create a roster of participating households on the block.
Step 3: With the help of your neighbors, decide the best date, time and location for your initial Neighborhood Watch meeting. At this meeting, the crime prevention officer will sepak to you and your neighbors about how to keep yourselves and your homes safe. Take this opportunity to mention any crime-related concerns to the officer. Please call the Crime Prevention Unit as soon as you have a specific date in mind to ensure it gets on the calendar.
Step 4: With the help of your neighbors, decide the best date, time and location for your initial Neighborhood Watch meeting. At this meeting the Crime Prevention Officer will explain the program and discuss crime prevention tips and criminal trends. Take this opportunity to mention any crime-related concerns to the officer. The Salem Police Department has many additional programs that support safe and secure neighborhoods.
Neighborhood Watch Signs
Neighborhood Watch signs are an excellent way to let criminals know that you and your neighbors are participating. The cost is $45.00 for purchase and installation of the sign. The Crime Prevention Officer can provide you with the request form.
Maintaining Your Neighborhood Watch
To enhance the effectiveness of Neighborhood Watch on your block:
Keep the lines of communication open. Knowledge helps build awareness.
Hold regular meetings or events. They serve as opportunities to keep you and your neighborhood connected. A united neighborhood experiences fewer crime problems.
Update all neighborhood information at least once a year. Take the opportunity to update the list if a new neighbor joins or if a neighbor moves away.
Invite the Crime Prevention Officer or your district officer to a meeting to speak on various crime prevention topics or services provided by the Salem Police Department.
If you are interested in starting a Neighborhood Watch, or if you want to join an existing group, or if you simply have any questions regarding Neighborhood Watch, feel free to call our Crime Prevention Unit at 503-588-6175. Or, check out some of the following links to get more information.
National Sheriffs' Association Neighborhood Watch Page
National Crime Prevention Council
National Neighborhood Watch Institute - Neighborhood Watch supplies
Do you live outside the Salem city limits? For information regarding crime prevention in Marion County, please contact the Marion County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit at 503-588-7981 or check out their web site at www.co.marion.or.us/SO/Operations/programs.
If you live in the city of Keizer, please contact the Keizer Police Department Community Services Unit at 503-856-3475 or visit their web site at www.keizerpd.com.