A
neighborhood watch is simply a group of concerned neighbors coming
together to keep their community free of crime. The emphasis of a neighborhood watch is on detecting and reporting suspicious activity which
may lead to crime. By learning more about topics such as how crime
occurs, residential security, and personal safety, residents are better able
to take necessary steps aimed at preventing crimes before they occur.
Isn't that what the police are for?
The Gainesville Police
Department enjoys an
excellent reputation for responding to the needs of the community. However,
there are simply not enough police officers to be everywhere all of the time.
The Police Department responds to hundreds of calls for service each day, ranging from bike theft to bank robbery. Officers depend upon
information provided by community members to ensure the most effective use of
their time and resources. A neighborhood watch acts as the eyes and
ears of the Police Department by detecting potential crime risks and promptly
reporting them. Communities with active neighborhood watch groups often
enjoy reductions in crime.
How do we
start a neighborhood watch?
Organizing a
neighborhood watch is easy! Follow these guidelines and you'll be well on
your way to a safer community.
Generate interest by talking to your
neighbors.
Plan your first meeting
Contact the Gainesville Police Department's
Crime Prevention Unit at (352) 334-2479 to schedule a speaker.
Choose a suitable location for the meeting.
(A neighbor's home, or a local school, or church are the most common sites)
A
neighborhood watch is simply a group of concerned neighbors coming
together to keep their community free of crime. The emphasis of a neighborhood watch is on detecting and reporting suspicious activity which
may lead to crime. By learning more about topics such as how crime
occurs, residential security, and personal safety, residents are better able
to take necessary steps aimed at preventing crimes before they occur.
The Gainesville Police
Department enjoys an
excellent reputation for responding to the needs of the community. However,
there are simply not enough police officers to be everywhere all of the time.
The Police Department responds to hundreds of calls for service each day, ranging from bike theft to bank robbery. Officers depend upon
information provided by community members to ensure the most effective use of
their time and resources. A neighborhood watch acts as the eyes and
ears of the Police Department by detecting potential crime risks and promptly
reporting them. Communities with active neighborhood watch groups often
enjoy reductions in crime.
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