PUBLIC NOTICE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY & TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Tuesday, November 1st, 2016 -7:00 p.m. 300 STATE HIGHWAY – CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS AGENDA City of Bethel Police Dept. PO Box 809 Bethel, AK 99559 Office| 543-3781 Fax| 543-5086 Members Joan Dewey Chair Eileen Henrikson Vice Chair Norman Ayagalria Council Representative Naim Shabani Julene Webber Daniel Maczynski Ex-Officio Members Andre Achee Chief of Police William Howell III Fire Chief Christina Him Recorder I. CALL TO ORDER II. ROLL CALL III. PEOPLE TO BE HEARD IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE REGULAR MEETING OF October 4th, 2016 VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. Consideration of a “Neighborhood Watch” program (Commission Member Maczynski) B. Statewide Task Force Update on Heroin (Byron Maczynski, Council Member ) VII. NEW BUSINESS A. BMC 5.30.120: Insurance Requirements for taxi cabs (Commission Member Shabani) VIII. CHIEFS’ COMMENTS Fire Chief Police Chief IX. TRANSPORTATION INSPECTOR’S REPORT X. COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE’S COMMENTS XI. COMMISSION MEMBER’S COMMENTS XII. ADJOURNMENT _______________________ Christina Him, Recorder POSTED on October 27th, 2016 POST OFFICE, AC QUICKSTOP, CORINA’S CASE LOT, CITY HALL, & POLICE DEPT. Next Public Safety and Transportation Commission Meeting will be December 6th, 2016. “Deep Sea Port and Transportation Center of the Kuskokwim”
Transcript
PUBLIC NOTICE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
PUBLIC SAFETY & TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Tuesday, November 1st, 2016 -7:00 p.m.
300 STATE HIGHWAY – CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS AGENDA
City of Bethel Police Dept. PO Box 809
Bethel, AK 99559 Office| 543-3781 Fax| 543-5086
Members
Joan Dewey
Chair
Eileen Henrikson Vice Chair
Norman Ayagalria
Council Representative
Naim Shabani
Julene Webber
Daniel Maczynski
Ex-Officio Members
Andre Achee
Chief of Police
William Howell III
Fire Chief
Christina Him
Recorder
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL
III. PEOPLE TO BE HEARD
IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE REGULAR MEETING OF
October 4th, 2016
VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Consideration of a “Neighborhood Watch” program (Commission Member
Maczynski)
B. Statewide Task Force Update on Heroin (Byron Maczynski, Council Member)
VII. NEW BUSINESS
A. BMC 5.30.120: Insurance Requirements for taxi cabs (Commission Member
Shabani)
VIII. CHIEFS’ COMMENTS
Fire Chief
Police Chief
IX. TRANSPORTATION INSPECTOR’S REPORT
X. COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE’S COMMENTS
XI. COMMISSION MEMBER’S COMMENTS
XII. ADJOURNMENT
_______________________
Christina Him, Recorder POSTED on October 27th, 2016 POST OFFICE, AC QUICKSTOP, CORINA’S CASE LOT, CITY HALL, & POLICE DEPT.
Next Public Safety and Transportation Commission Meeting will be December 6th, 2016.
“Deep Sea Port and Transportation Center of the Kuskokwim”
5.30.120 Insurance required.
A. Before any permit is issued for any taxicab, river taxi, limousine or bus, the applicant shall furnish to the transportation
inspector the insurance policies required by this section, issued by an insurance company that is authorized to do business
within the state.
B. The insurance required by this section for vehicles with a manufacturer’s rated seating capacity of six (6) persons or less, or,
if a mini-van, six (6) persons or less seating capacity after seat removal to accommodate baggage, shall provide coverage as
follows:
1. Combined single limit for all bodily injury or property damage arising from one (1) accident: three hundred thousand
dollars ($300,000); and
2. For all persons injured or dead in any one (1) accident caused by an uninsured motorist: one hundred thousand dollars
($100,000).
C. The insurance required by this section for vehicles with a manufacturer’s rated seating capacity of seven (7) persons or more,
or if a mini-van, seven (7) persons or more seating capacity after seat removal to accommodate baggage, shall provide
coverage as follows:
1. Combined single limit for all bodily injury or property damage arising from one (1) accident: seven hundred thousand
dollars ($700,000); and
2. For all persons injured or dead in any one (1) accident caused by an uninsured motorist: one hundred thousand dollars
($100,000).
D. Every insurance policy or certificate shall contain a clause obligating the insurer or surety to give the transportation inspector
written notice no less than thirty (30) days before the cancellation, expiration, nonrenewal, lapse, or other termination of such
insurance, unless the specified policy is for a vehicle which will no longer be used as a taxicab. A lapse, cancellation, expiration,
nonrenewal, or termination of insurance coverage shall work an automatic suspension of any permit for so long as the permittee
is without insurance as required by this section, and it shall be a violation of this chapter to provide taxicab service with a vehicle
not insured as required by this section. The insurance policy shall list the city as a certificate holder. [Ord. 15-21 § 2; Ord. 07-19
§ 2; Ord. 01-02 § 3.]
5.30.130 Posting of insurance notice.
Proof of insurance as required by Chapters 5.20 through 5.50 BMC shall be carried in the passenger compartment of all
taxicabs at all times. [Ord. 15-21 § 2; Ord. 01-02 § 3.]
Neighborhood Watch ManualUSAonWatch - National Neighborhood Watch Program
Bureau of Justice AssistanceU.S. Department of Justice
Start ing a Neig hborhood Watch 1 of 3
2002 National Crime Prevention Council 1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW 13th Floor Washington, DC 20036 www.ncpc.org
National Crime Prevention Council
Starting a Neighborhood Watch Neighborhood Watch, Block Watch, Town Watch, Apartment Watch, Crime Watch -- no matter what it's called, this is one of the most effective and least costly answers to crime. Watch groups are a foundation of community crime prevention, they can be a stepping stone to community revitalization. Phase One: Getting Started -- Meetings, Block Captains, and Maps
• Form a small planning committee of neighbors to discuss needs, the level of interest, possible challenges, and the Watch concept.
• Contact the local police or sheriffs' department, or local crime prevention
organization, to discuss Neighborhood Watch and local crime problems. Invite a law enforcement officer to attend your meeting.
• Publicize your meeting at least one week in advance with door-to-door fliers and
follow up with phone calls the day before.
• Select a meeting place that is accessible to people with disabilities.
• Hold an initial meeting to gauge neighbors' interest; establish purpose of program; and begin to identify issues that need to be addressed. Stress that a Watch group is an association of neighbors who look out for each other's families and property, alert the police to any suspicious activities or crime in progress, and work together to make their community a safer and better place to live.
Phase Two: When the neighborhood decides to adopt the Watch idea Elect a chairperson.
• Ask for block captain volunteers who are responsible for relaying information to members on their block, keeping up-to-date information on residents, and making special efforts to involve the elderly, working parents, and young people. Block captains also can serve as liaisons between the neighborhood and the police and communicate information about meetings and crime incidents to all residents.
Start ing a Neig hborhood Watch 2 of 3
2002 National Crime Prevention Council 1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW 13th Floor Washington, DC 20036 www.ncpc.org
• Establish a regular means of communicating with Watch members—e.g., newsletter, telephone tree, e-mall, fax, etc.
• Prepare a neighborhood map showing names, addresses, and phone numbers of
participating households and distribute to members. Block captains keep this map up to date, contacting newcomers to the neighborhood and rechecking occasionally with ongoing participants.
• With guidance from a law enforcement agency, the Watch trains its members in
home security techniques, observation skills, and crime reporting. Residents also learn about the types of crime that affect the area.
• If you are ready to post Neighborhood Watch signs, check with law enforcement
to see if they have such eligibility requirements as number of houses that participate in the program. Law enforcement may also be able to provide your program with signs. If not, they can probably tell you where you can order them.
• Organizers and block captains must emphasize that Watch groups are not
vigilantes and do not assume the role of the police. They only ask neighbors to be alert, observant, and caring—and to report suspicious activity or crimes immediately to the police.
• The Watch concept is adaptable. There are Park Watches, Apartment Watches,
Window Watches, Boat Watches, School Watches, Realtor Watches, Utility Watches, and Business Watches. A Watch can be organized around any geographic unit.
Tips for Success
• Hold regular meetings to help residents get to know each other and to collectively decide upon program strategies and activities.
• Consider linking with an existing organization, such as a citizens' association,
community development office, tenants' association, housing authority. • Canvas door-to-door to recruit members.
• Involve everyone -- young and old, single and married, renter and homeowner.
Start ing a Neig hborhood Watch 3 of 3
2002 National Crime Prevention Council 1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW 13th Floor Washington, DC 20036 www.ncpc.org
• Gain support from the police or sheriffs' office. This is critical to a Watch group's credibility. These agencies are the major sources of information on local crime patterns, home security, other crime prevention education, and crime reporting.
• Get the information out quickly. Share all kinds of news -- quash rumors.
• Gather the facts about crime in your neighborhood. Check police reports, do
victimization surveys, and learn residents' perceptions about crime. Often residents' opinions are not supported by facts, and accurate information can reduce fear of crime.
• Physical conditions like abandoned cars or overgrown vacant lots contribute to
crime. Sponsor cleanups, encourage residents to beautify the area, and ask them to turn on outdoor lights at night.
• It's essential to celebrate the success of the effort and recognize volunteers'
contributions through such events as awards, annual dinners, and parties. To help meet community needs, Neighborhood Watches can sponsor meetings that address broader issues such as drug abuse, gangs, self-protection tactics, isolation of the elderly, crime in the schools, and rape prevention.
• Don't forget events like National Night Out or a potluck dinner that gives
neighbors a chance to get together. Such items as pins, t-shirts, hats, or coffee mugs with the group's name also enhance identity and pride.
This manual has been created for citizen organizers and law enforcement officers that work with community members to establish watch programs. The material contained within covers a number of topics and provides suggestions for developing a watch groups. However, please incorporate topics and issues that are important to your group into your watch.
Grant Statement:This document was prepared by the National Sheriffs’ Association, under cooperative agreement number 2005-MU-
BX-K077, awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the U.S. Department of Justice.
Table of ContentsChapter 1: USAonWatch – The National Face of Neighborhood Watch Page 1
•WhatisNeighborhoodWatch
•ProgramHistory
•ManyDifferentNames,OneIdea
•BenefitsofNeighborhoodWatch
Chapter 2: Who is Involved in Neighborhood Watch? Page 4
•StartingaNeighborhoodWatch
Chapter 3: Organizing Your Neighborhood Watch Page 6•PhoneTrees
•NeighborhoodMaps
Chapter 4: Planning and Conducting Meetings Page 10
•InvitingNeighbors
•MeetingLogistics
•FacilitatingMeetings
•AlternativestoMeetings
•IdeasforCreativeMeetings
•NeighborhoodWatchActivities
Chapter 5: Revitalizing Watch Groups Page 18
•RecognizeYourVolunteers
Chapter 6: Neighborhood Watch Skills – Using Your “Eyes and Ears” Page 20
•ObservationsSkills
•KnowingWhatandHowtoReport
Chapter 7: Establishing Partnerships Page 24
•IdentifyingResources
•CitizenCorps
Chapter 8: Neighborhood Watch’s Expanded Role Page 26
ThefoundationoftheNeighborhoodWatchprogramis the information, training, technical support, andresources provided to local law enforcement agenciesand citizens. The training program is designed to buildthecapacityof lawenforcementofficersassigned toworkwith community groups by providing specific instructionontopicsimportanttoNeighborhoodWatch.Inadditionto training, Neighborhood Watch has developed a newToolkit that contains such items asposters, flipbooksontargethardening for thehome, andpresentations for thecommunity.
To learn more, visit www.USAonWatch.org andbrowsethesite.CheckouttheResourceCenter,visittheNeighborhoodWatchpartners,subscribetoourelectronicnewsletter,orregisteryourWatchgroup.
What is Neighborhood Watch?ANeighborhoodWatchprogramisagroupofpeople
livinginthesameareawhowanttomaketheirneighborhoodsaferbyworkingtogetherandinconjunctionwithlocallawenforcementtoreducecrimeandimprovetheirqualityoflife.NeighborhoodWatch(NW)groupshaveregularmeetingsto plan how theywill accomplish their specific goals andassign responsibilities to group members. NeighborhoodWatch is homeland security at the most local level. It isan opportunity to volunteer andwork towards increasingthe safety and security of our homes and our homeland.
NeighborhoodWatch is one of the oldest and best-knowncrimepreventionconceptsinNorthAmerica.Inthelate1960s,anincreaseincrimeheightenedtheneedforacrimepreventioninitiativefocusedonresidentialareasandinvolvinglocalcitizens.TheNationalSheriffs’Association(NSA) responded, creating the National NeighborhoodWatch Program in 1972, to assist citizens and lawenforcement.IntheaftermathoftheSeptember11,2001terroristattacks,strengtheningandsecuringcommunitieshasbecomemorecriticalthanever.NeighborhoodWatchprograms have responded to the challenge, expandingbeyond their traditional crime prevention role to helpneighborhoodsfocusondisasterpreparedness,emergencyresponse,andterrorismawareness.
In 2002, the NSA inpartnershipwithUSAFreedomCorps,CitizenCorps,andtheU.S. Department of Justicelaunched USAonWatch,the face of the revitalizedNeighborhood Watch
initiative, which represents the expanded role of watchprograms throughout the United States. USAonWatchempowerscitizens tobecomeactive inhomelandsecurityefforts through participation in Neighborhood Watchgroups. Many neighborhoods already have establishedwatchgroups that are vibrant, effective, andcan takeonthisexpandedrolewithease.Forneighborhoodswithoutthriving groups, the renewed emphasis on emergencypreparednessandresponsemayprovidetherightincentive
Activities conducted by Neighborhood Watchgroups across the country are as diverse and varied astheir volunteers and the neighborhoods they represent.Some groups mobilize to patrol neighborhoods, otherdistribute crime prevention information, while businessassessments or home security surveys are conducted byothers.WheredisorderproblemsaretheprimaryfocusofNeighborhoodWatch members, volunteers mobilize andconductneighborhoodclean-ups,orworkwithfaith-basedorganizations toassistwith thehomelessandmentally illwhowanderthestreets.AslawenforcementofficerslearntheneedsoftheirvariousNeighborhoodWatchgroupsandthedynamicsoftheirvolunteers,theycantailoractivitiesand responses to meet the ever-changing needs of theircitizens.
Program HistoryForalmost70years,NSAhasbeen
committed to the safety and securityofAmerica’s communities.NSA tookcrime prevention concepts a stepfurtherbymakinganationalinitiative– theNationalNeighborhoodWatchProgram.Theprogramwasdevelopedin response to amultitude of requests from sheriffs andpolicechiefsacross thecountry.Lawenforcement leaderswerelookingforacrimepreventionprogramtoincorporatecitizeninvolvement,andaddresstheincreasingnumberofburglaries taking place, especially in rural and suburbanresidentialareas.
Funding was sought and obtained from the LawEnforcement Assistance Administration part of the U.S.DepartmentofJustice,andthus,theNationalNeighborhoodWatchProgramwasborn.Thefirsttwoyearsoftheprogramweredevotedtodisseminatinginformationonthenatureandvolumeofburglary,andprovidinginformationonhowtosecureresidentialpropertyandmake it lessvulnerabletobreak-ins,alsoknownastargethardening.Fromthere,itevolvedtopromotingtheestablishmentofongoinglocalneighborhoodwatchgroupswherecitizenscouldwork inconjunction with their law enforcement agencies in anefforttoreduceburglariesandotherneighborhoodcrimes.Thecreationof“BoristheBurglar”aroseasthesymbolofcrimepreventioninneighborhoods.
Throughouttheyears,NeighborhoodWatchhasgrownfroman“extraeyesandears”approachtocrimepreventiontoamuchmoreproactive, community-orientedendeavor.Neighborhood Watch groups are now incorporatingactivities that not only address crime prevention issues,butwhichalsorestoreprideandunitytoaneighborhood.
It is not uncommon to seeNeighborhoodWatch groupsparticipatinginneighborhoodcleanupsandotheractivitieswhichimpactthequalityoflifeforcommunityresidents.
In 2002, USA Freedom Corps was created underPresident Bush’s initiative to build a national culture ofservice, citizenship, and responsibility.USAonWatch wasestablishedinpartnershipwiththeDepartmentofJusticeas an expansion of the Neighborhood Watch programto empower citizens to become directly involved in theircommunitytoprepareforallhazards.USAonWatchisoneoffiveprogrampartnersofCitizenCorps,anationalefforttoencouragecitizeninvolvement.Followingthehurricanesof2005,anew initiative foremergencypreparednessandservice swept the country. Neighborhood Watch groupsareawayforlawenforcementandcitizenstoworktogethernotonlyfordisasterpreparednessbutforallhazardsandencouragecitizenstovolunteerintheircommunities.
Many Names, One ConceptAfter the National Sheriffs’ Association kicked off
the National Neighborhood Watchprogram, it was left to local lawenforcement agencies to create localgroups.Dependingontheneedsofthelocalcommunities,aswellasthedesireof the sheriff or police chief,Watch groups were startedwithdifferentnames and logos.However, the concept ofcrime prevention through citizen involvement remainedconstant. Today the National Sheriffs’ Association andthe Bureau of JusticeAssistance (BJA),U.S.Departmentof Justice recognize that although a group might becalled “crimewatch,” “blockwatch,” “businesswatch,”orsimplyusethenameofthehomeowners’association,itisstill “neighborhood watch.” By revitalizing the NationalNeighborhoodWatchprogramasUSAonWatch,allgroupscommitted to reducing crime and making a differencein their communities belong to one national programregardlessofthenameorlogoontheneighborhoodsign.
Benefits of Neighborhood WatchThere are obvious benefits Neighborhood Watch
volunteers and their communities have experiencedthroughouttheyearssuchas:
personnel and therefore reduce law enforcement‘sburden
Who is Involved in Neighborhood Watch?Anynationalinitiativeorprogramrequirescontributions
at multiple levels, fromthe federal governmentto sheriffs to individualcitizens. The NationalSheriffs’ Associationis working with theBureau of JusticeAssistance, Office ofJustice Programs, andthe U.S. Departmentof Justice to form newNeighborhood Watchgroups and revitalizeexistinggroups. Inordertoreachthecitizens,locallawenforcementagencieshavebeengivenachargeto involve the peoplein their community.Anyone and everyonecan be involved in aNeighborhood Watchgroup.
National-Level PartnersThe Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice
Programs, U.S. Department of Justice works with theNational Sheriffs’ Association to provide administrativeandfinancialsupporttotheNeighborhoodWatchprogram.This support is used to produce and distribute productsandmaterialsthathelpcreateandenhanceNeighborhoodWatchprogramsacrossthenation.BymobilizingAmericanstotakeaction,crimeandterrorismcanbereduced.
State and Local Law EnforcementLocal law enforcement agencies are charged to reach
out to their communities to form local partnerships thatwillassistinthedevelopmentofnewNeighborhoodWatchprograms and enhance existing programs. By partnering
together, crime can be prevented or reduced, and theoverall quality of life canbe improved.Law enforcementofficers include sheriffs’deputies,policeofficers, andanyotherswornlawenforcementofficer.
Law Enforcement LiaisonA law enforcement liaison is the law enforcement
officerordeputyspecificallyassignedtheresponsibilityofestablishing and supporting local Neighborhood Watchgroups.TheliaisonwillguideNeighborhoodWatchleaderstomakedecisionsthatwillbebestfortheirgroup.Theofficerwill train Neighborhood Watch leaders, block captains-
and members in areasranging from settinggoals to how to reportsuspiciousactivities.Theliaison should also beinvolved in facilitatingc o m m u n i t y - w i d eNeighborhood Watchactivities.
Community MembersN e i g h b o r h o o d
Watch members haveseveral responsibilities.One of the mostimportant things amember can do is toremainactive.Anactivememberwillhelpcreateand maintain a level ofexcitement about theprogram and will helprecruit more members,
leading to a higher level of crime prevention. It is theresponsibility of members to stay informed about issuesin theirneighborhoodandcommunity.This informationshouldbesharedwithotherstokeepmembersmotivatedandtopreventthegroupfrombecomingstagnant.
4
Chapter 2
Starting a Neighborhood Watch
ANeighborhoodWatch group is easy to start.Haveameetingwith your neighbors and don’t forget to invitealocal lawenforcementrepresentative.NWprogramsarebuiltuponsuccessfulrelationshipsbetweenlawenforcementandthecommunity.RememberthisisyourNeighborhoodWatchgroupandlawenforcementistheretosupportandassistyou.Itisyourresponsibilitytomaintaininterestandkeepthegrouprunningsmoothly.
• Begin to talk to yourneighbors to gauge interest. Ifthey don’t understandwhatNW is, use the flyer atthe endof thismanual “Reasons forNeighborhoodWatch”toexplainthebenefits
• Contact your local law enforcement agency. Manypolice departments and sheriff’s offices haveestablished programs or an officer assigned toNW.Callandtellsomeoneyouareinterestedinstartingagroup.Theymayhaveideasorsuggestionsforstartingasuccessfulgroup.IfanofficerisnottrainedinNW,
Five Steps to Building aSuccessful Neighborhood Watch
Building a strong Neighborhood Watch programis not an overnight process: it takes patience, planningand dedication. However a successful program will keepa community strong and protected andwhen a crime oremergency happens, theywill bemore ready.Keep theseFiveStepsinmindwhenstartingyourgroup.
The 5 StepsStep1:Recruitandorganizeasmanyneighborsaspossible.Step2:Contactyourlocallawenforcementagencyandscheduleameeting.Step3:Discusscommunityconcernsanddevelopanactionplan.Step4:Holdregularmeetingsandholdtrainingonrelevantskills.Step5:Implementaphonetreeandtakeactionsteps.
5
Step 1Talk with your fellow neighbors about their concerns
regarding crimeand safety in thearea.Discuss andcreateawareness among the neighbors or potential volunteersabout a particular concern or general issue affecting theneighborhood.Citizensmaywanttocollectdatafromavarietyofsources,includingpolicereports,personalobservations,ormediareports.Insomecases,oncethefactualinformationon the issue is collected, other concernsmay emerge andhelp todemonstrate theneed for an activeNeighborhoodWatch.Oneexampleofthismightbeasituationinwhichcitizens do not feel safe because of the large number ofyoungpeoplewhoseemtocongregate inasingleareaandthenroamthestreets.Onceinformationiscollectedaboutthis problem, other concerns such as underage drinking,druguseorpropertycrimesmayberevealed.TheprimaryconcernintheinitialphaseofformingaNWistocollectalloftheinformationanddevelopastrategytoraisethelevelofawarenessabouttheidentifiedconcernsorissues.Oncethedataiscollected,theorganizerscanformattheinformationinordertobeabletodisseminateittotheirtargetedgroupofresidentsorpotentialNWvolunteers.Letters,flyers,emailsorevenbillboardscanbeusedtospreadthemessageabouttheconcernandtomobilizepeopletoformaNWgroup.Insomecommunities,dependingontheissues,thelocalmediamayhelptospotlighttheconcernsandhelptomobilizethecitizens.Getthewordoutabouttheidentifiedproblemsandbegintorecruitandselectindividualswhowanttoformthe“core” group of the newNW effort. This core groupwillberesponsibleforrecruitingothers,meetingwithlocallawenforcement,andbuildingorrevitalizingtheNeighborhoodWatchprogram.
havebeenidentifiedandthecoregrouphasbeenestablished,thecitizens shouldmeetwith representativesof their locallawenforcementagencyinordertolearnhowthepublicandlawenforcementcanworktogether tobuildapartnership,createandsustainaNeighborhoodWatchgroup,andresolvethe community issues. Law enforcement officials suchas police officers or sheriff’s deputies will be able to helpthe citizens to formalize their NeighborhoodWatch. Lawenforcement officers can provide information, literature,trainingandahostofotherimportantresourcestohelpinbuildingthenewgroup.TheneworrevitalizedgroupshouldregisterwithUSAonWatch tobecomepartof thenationalinitiativeagainstcrimeandterrorism,andlocaleffortscanbeinitiatedtodevelopandbuildbeneficialpartnerships.
Citizenvolunteersmaytaketheinitiativetoaddresssomeof these concerns,while for others thepolice or sheriff’sdepartment may want to implement crime reductionstrategies. Conduct a meeting on strategic planning andidentify the concerns and resources available. All toooften, newWatch groups do not have a definedmissionorspecificgoalandfindthemselveswithnoclearguidanceordirection.Numerousactivitiesmayoccur,butduetoalackoffocus,theymaynotresolvetherealissues.Afterthecommunity’sconcernshavebeenidentifiedandprioritized,the group will turn its attention to developing specificstrategies to address these needs. Develop goals withspecificobjectivesandrealisticmilestones.Aplanofactionshouldbeadoptedandimplementationstrategiesshouldbedesignedthatwillnotonlyguidetheplan,butalsoprovideameanstoassessandevaluateitseffectiveness.
Step 4Once the new or revitalized Watch group has been
formed, and goals and objectives have been determined,the Watch leaders and citizen volunteers should schedulemeetings where they can receive training and hone theirskillsincrimepreventionandcommunitypolicing.Locallawenforcementcanprovideanumberoftrainingprogramsthatwillhelpthecitizensworktogethertoprotectthemselvesandtheircommunities.Dependingonthetypeofactivitiesthatthe group will undertake (whether neighborhood patrols,cleanup days, crime prevention seminars, or vulnerabilitystudiesforbusinessassessments),citizenscanofferavarietyof important crime and terrorismprevention services oncetheyreceivethepropertrainingandinstruction.
outandworkwiththecommunity,whileothersareselectedbecauseoftheircommunicationskillsorabilitiestoplan,organizeandmobilizeothers.Insomesituationstheofficermay have no prior NW experience and the communitymusthelptheofficerunderstandtheimportanceofNW.
A law enforcement or public safety officer who hasbeenassignedasaliaisontoassist,enhance,andsupportNeighborhoodWatcheffortsinthecommunityshould:
• LearnaboutthehistoryoftheNeighborhoodWatch.• Collect general information on the community or
It is important to note all of the information beinggatheredisgeneralinnature.ThisfoundationalinformationshouldprovidetheofficerwithanunderstandingofwhattheNeighborhoodWatch is andwhere theprogramsaregoingtobeoffered,enhanced,orexpanded.
ThereisnosinglerightwaytoorganizeaNWgroup.Dependingonlocallawenforcementandtheirrequirements,theremight not be a lot of choice.Nomatter how yourNWis setup, theorganizational structuremust take intoaccounttheneedsofthecommunityandlawenforcement.A traditional NW group will include a law enforcementofficer or liaison to the group, an area coordinator wholivesinthecommunity,blockcaptainsspreadthroughoutthe community, and watch members. One of the finalsteps in forming and organizing a NeighborhoodWatchisthedesignationofleadership.Theseindividualswillberesponsible for the planning and coordinating activities.Watchleadersmaybeformalleaderselectedbytheirpeersor informal leaderswhoare simply the first to volunteer!As aWatch becomes more advanced, the members mayformanadvisoryorexecutiveboardtomakedecisionsfora larger area. It doesn’tmatter how yourWatch group issetup,aslongasyourcommunitymembersareexcitedandeffectivelyaddressingtheidentifiedproblems.
The Law Enforcement LiaisonTraditionally, designated sworn officers or their non-
swornpublic servicecounterpartsareassignedas liaisonsor coordinators for Neighborhood Watch. Often theseindividuals are selected because of their previous crimeprevention experience or training. Some Watch officersandcoordinatorsarechosenbecauseoftheirdesiretoreach
7
The Block CaptainBlock captains are recommended for every 10-15
houses, and they should be directly involved with theirimmediateneighbors.Theblockcaptain’sresponsibilitiesmayinclude:
• Acting as liaison between block residents and thecoordinator.
• Establishing a “telephone chain” by compiling anddistributing a current list of names, addresses, andtelephonenumbersofblockparticipants.
• Encouraging participation in “OperationIdentification,” a nationwide program in whichpersonal property is marked legibly with a uniqueidentifyingnumbertopermitpositiveidentificationifvaluablesarelostorstolen.
• Organizeadvisorycommitteesasneeded.• Support and organize fundraising efforts in the
community.• Maintainarelationshipwithlawenforcement.• Bring emerging issues in the community to the
attentionof law enforcement andother governmentofficials.
Neighborhood Watch MembersIn some neighborhoods, the need for a proactive
NeighborhoodWatchprogramwillbeevidentbecauseofthewell-documentedcrimesortheacknowledgeddisorderthat occurs in the community. In these neighborhoods,residents are usually ready and willing to mobilize andparticipate in the NW program. They often need littleexternal motivation. The focus in these areas is usuallymore on leadership and organization. However, in otherneighborhoods the incidents oroffensesmaybe lesswellknown and the level of awareness among the residentsmayneedtobeincreased.Underthesecircumstancestheresponsibility for raising the levelofawareness fallsuponthelawenforcementliaisonaswellastheareacoordinator.
The responsibility for the recruitment of volunteersusuallyfalls totheBlockCaptainsorAreaCoordinators,butinsomeinstancestheofficermayhavetoinstructtheseleadersonhowtorecruitnewmembers.Onceacoregroup
8
of Neighborhood Watch volunteers has been identified,specific members may volunteer to take on leadershippositions. In some instances, certain individuals may bereluctanttotakeonspecializedroleswithinthegroup.Thelaw enforcementofficermaywish to interview and selectcertainkeyindividualstoleadspecificefforts.
build a senseof community in theneighborhood.Phonetreescanexpediteemergencyinformation.Neighborhoodscanbedividedintosmall,workableareasusingstreetsornaturalboundaries.Eachgrouppreparesachart(whichiscontinuouslyupdated)thatincludesthenamesandphonenumbersofallmembers.ABlockCaptainorotherpersonis designated to be contacted by the police or sheriff’soffice.Eachindividuallistedonthetreeknowswhomheorshe is tocontactshouldemergencyorother importantinformationneedtobedisseminatedinahurry.
When do you use the phone tree?
• Aftercalling911,alertyourneighborstoanemergencyin progress or that one has just occurred such as acougar sighting, hazardous material spills, majortrafficaccidents,actsofnature,etc.
with your neighbors. Your group can organize an emaillistmuchlikethatofaphonetree.Whenanissueintheneighborhoodcomesupyoucancontactresidentsinafastandefficientwaywithemail.However,keepinmindthatsomepeoplestilldonothaveinternetaccessathome.
BLOCK CAPTAINFirst & Last Names
AddressHome Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
First & Last NamesAddress
Home Phone #Emergency #
Email
Sample Phone Tree
9
• Consider adding children’s names, work numbers,andoutofstateemergencynumbers.
*Some free internet mapping programs or aerial photos might be helpful. To find them conduct an internet search for your street, town, and state.
Makemapssimple,startwithNatthetop,drawlinesforstreetsandsquaresforhouses,andfillintheinformation.Ifthere’snotenoughroom,justfillintheaddressthenlistnames andnumberson theback.Or simplynumber thehomes startingwith “1” then list the address,name, andphonenumbersontheback.Divideneighborhoodsof50ormorehomesinto“areas”becauseifaWatchgroupistoobig,itcanfallapartwithonlyafewpeopletomanageit.Eachareacouldhaveacolororanameanditsownareacaptain.Thisway,noonepersonhastoomuchtohandle.Oneareacaptainmightserveaschairofalltheareacaptainsandbetheonewho is the contact for thepolicedepartment. Inlargeneighborhoods,everyoneshouldgetamastermapaswellasoneoftheirownarea.
Yourgroupwillhavetodecidewhowillmaintainandupdate the email lists and what information should beincluded. Recommendations include: meeting reminders,informationoncrimeintheneighborhood,businessrelateddirectlytothegroup,andinformationlawenforcementhasaskedthegrouptoshare. Informationthatshouldnotbesharedincludes:chainemails,personalinformationaboutaneighbor,ornewsarticlesunrelatedtothegroup.
*A number of companies have email/web communities that can be created just for your Neighborhood Watch. If you are interested in using the resources because it might be a good fit with your group, conduct a web search. Neither, the National Sheriffs’ Association or Bureau of Justice Assistance recommend nor support any of the web-based online communities.
Traditionally,NeighborhoodWatchwas always abouthavingmeetingstodiscusscrimeintheneighborhood,butasNWhaschanged,sohavemeetings.Thekeytoplanninga successfulWatchmeeting is organization. NW leadersshould be aware that participants are volunteering timeoutofbusyschedulesandshouldworktoensureefficientandinformativemeetings.Meetingleadersshouldhavethefacilitiespreparedpriortothemeeting,startandfinishontime,andthankparticipantsforattending.
Some meetings require a face-to-face gathering. Bymeeting in person, you are able to establish, build, andmaintain personal relationships with the people withwhomyouareworking.Byholdingameeting,youareabletoeducateandsharevaluableinformationwithattendees.Youwillbeableto“read”youraudienceinordertofocusonthingsthatareimportanttothegroupasawhole.Meetingsallowthoseinattendancetodiscussideasandmakegroup
• Consider using one of the online social networkingtools (Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc) to facilitatecommunication and encourage neighbors toparticipate.
Neighborhood Watch Meeting
What: Monthly MeetingWhere: Brad and Chandy Moore’s House 8846 Clearwater Drive
Directions: From I-10, exit Calgary Trail and make a right. Take your first left onto Clearwater. 8846 is third house on the right.
Refreshments and desserts will be served.
Sample Meeting Flyer
Sample Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE(date)Contact: Public Information Office, 555-5555
SHERIFF’S OFFICE HOSTS NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH FORUM The Sheriff’s Office will hold a Neighborhood Watch Forum on Tuesday, March 21 at O. Henry Middle School, 2610 W. Tenth St., from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The meeting is designed to organize crime watch groups and form partnerships with law enforcement to fight crime in neighborhoods. Residents will have the opportunity to meet Central Division representatives and discuss ways to curb crime in their communities. Future meetings will be held to form groups in other command districts.
12
Meeting Logistics It is important to select a date and a time for your
meetingthatisconvenientformostofthepeopleinvited.You will not be able to accommodate every person, butyou should try to appeal to themajority.For example: Ifyourmeetingconsistsofmostlyworkingprofessionals,thenyouwillnotwanttointerferewiththeirbusinessday.Youmightschedulethemeetingintheeveningjustafterworksothattheycanattendontheirwayhome.Iftheymakeitallthewayhome,thechancesofyourgettingthemtoleaveagainarereduced.Ontheotherhand,ifyouareplanninga meeting for a group consisting primarily of work-at-homeindividuals,anothertimewouldprobablybebetter,perhapsatimewhentheirchildrenarestillinschool.Tryto establish a regularly-scheduled meeting day and time.Youmightmeetonceaweekoronceamonth,atanintervalthatbestfitstheneedsandavailabilityofthegroup.
You should also select a locationconvenient for the majority of thegroup. If you are conducting aWatch groupmeeting you shouldprobably hold themeeting in theneighborhood. However, if youare holding a community-widemeeting for your block captainsa more centralized locationwould be better. Neighborhood schools and faith-basedorganizations often provide meeting space for groupssuch as Neighborhood Watch. Remember to use thepartnershipsyouhavedevelopedinthecommunity.Invitepeoplefromyourpartnerorganizationsorasktousetheirfacilitiesformeetings.Youshouldensurethelocationhasthe required and desired facilities—space, seating, publicaccess, restrooms, climate control, technical equipmentsuchasmicrophonesanda/vsupport(ifneeded),perhapsevenkitchen facilities.Thisof course all dependson thesizeofyourgroup.
placeforthenextmeeting.Ifyoumeetonaregularbasis,usethistimetoremindyourgroupofthenextmeeting. If you know the topic and purpose of thenextmeeting,thiswouldbeagoodtimetogenerateexcitementforthatmeeting.
After the MeetingAfterthemeeting,reviewhowthemeetingwentandhow
itcouldbeimproved.EffectivemeetingswillnotdisappointthoseinattendancebecauseitwillshowNWvaluesbusyschedules,butencouragespeopletostayinvolved.TheNWcoordinator or block captains should distribute minutes(or make them available) including details about actionitemsandassignments,personsresponsible,andtimelines.Eachblockcaptainshouldfollow-upwithpeoplewhodidnot attend to see if they had questions about anythingdiscussed.Thiswillencouragepeopletostayinvolved,eveniftheycan’tattendmeetings.
13
Alternatives to MeetingsWith overbooked schedules and new ways to
communicate, it may be beneficial to maintaining yourwatch to occasionally hold non-traditional meetings. Ifyou can accomplish the same purpose without meetingin person, consider more time-efficient alternatives suchas email, phone, online chats, creating a Facebook page,utilizing Twitter to update neighbors, and/or electronicnewsletter.. If you are simply relaying information toothers and feel that the information is not importantenough to call ameeting, consider a flyer or someothersort of publication that can be mailed or distributed togroupmembers.Respecteachgroupmember’stime.Iftheinformationprovidedinpersonatthemeetingisimportantandvalued,thenameetingisappropriate.
5:45pm Welcome and Sign-in6:00 pm Call to order6:00-6:10 Introductions6:10-6:15 Overview of Neighborhood Watch6:15-6:25 Discussion of Neighborhood Issues6:25-6:40 Crime Prevention Presentation6:40-6:45 Issues for next meeting6:45-6:50 Date, place, and time of next meeting6:50 pm Adjourn/Refreshments
Ssmple Meeting Agenda
14
Fundamentals of Meeting PlanningWhat do you project to be the outcome of your meeting?
What are you going to do at your meeting?_Presentasubject?_Havequestionsandanswers?_Haveabusinessmeeting?_Problemsolve?_Socialize?
Set your agenda_Introductions_Readingofminutesfromlastmeeting_Oldbusiness_Newbusiness_Nextmeetingdate,time&location
How long the meeting will run?Starttime______ Finishtime______(Nomatterhowlateyougetstarted—sticktotheendingtime)
Publicize the meeting_Newspaper_Postflyers_Mailinglists_Personalinvitationandphonecallsaremosteffective
What will be your next step after this meeting?_Decidethisbeforethemeetingends–wherewillyougofromhere?_Askforcommitteesifneededandsetthemuptonight_Setthenextmeetingdatebeforeeveryoneleaves
Possible equipment checklist_TV/VCR_Overhead_PowerPointprojector_Workingelectricaloutlets_Lighting_Whiteboard/chartpackandstands_Feltpens/dryerasers_Maskingtapeoradhesivefornewsprint_Microphone_Podium_Waterforspeaker_Refreshments_Chairs&seatingarrangementforgoodvisibility
Fire Prevention & First AidUsepartnershipswith localgovernmentagenciesand
nonprofit organizations to hold training on fire safetyskills and first aid training. These trainings are essentialto keeping your community safe and allowing citizens totakecontroloftheirownsafety.MostoftheseorganizationswillbethrilledtoparticipateandyourWatchgroupwillbeexcitedaboutthedifferenttypesoftraining.
Beautification ProjectsYour group canorganize an effort to remove graffiti,
Celebrate Safe CommunitieeTake time to Celebrate Safe
Communities(CSC)byorganizingalocalcelebrationduringthefirstThursday to Saturday ofOctober.HelpAmerica’scommunitiesTakeABiteOutOfCrime®!CSC is apartnershipofNSA,BJA,andtheNationalCrime PreventionCouncil.CSC is designed tospotlight communities’ crimeprevention efforts, enhancepublic awareness of vital crime prevention and safetymessages, and recruit year-round support for ongoingprevention activities that help keep neighborhoods safefrom crime. This initiative will help local communitiesorganize safety-focused events. Local CSC activities heldinOctobertocoincidewithCrimePreventionMonthwillhelpAmericansofallagesrecognizethatasafercommunityis no accident and that crime prevention is everyone’sbusinesseverydayoftheyear.
TriadIn an increasing
numberofcommunities,older residents and lawenforcement participatein Triad, a cooperativecrime prevention
initiative. Working together, the police department(s),sheriff’soffice,andseniorleadersdevisestrategiestoreduce
Additional Neighborhood Watch Activities
crimesagainsttheelderly–andtodealwiththesometimesexaggerated fear of crime, which affects some elderlypersons.Triadsalsosponsorreassuranceeffortsforlonelyor isolated seniors.Triadmaybring forth capable leaderstoWatchgroupsandmoresetsofeyesandearstoobservesuspiciousactivitiesinacommunity.
FundraisingNeighborhood Watch is
a community-based group.Whilelawenforcementshouldsupport the group’s efforts,usuallythelocalsheriff’sofficeorpolicedepartmentdoesnothavethefundingtosupportanythingbeyondthesalaryoftheNWofficerandperhapsafewsigns.ItisnotnecessarytohaveenormousfundstooperateastrongNWprogram,themost important asset ofNW is a strong community.However signs, brochures, and meeting supplies invokecost.Ifthelocallawenforcementagencydoesn’tprovideasmuchfundingasagroupmaydesire,theWatchgroupcanexplorealternativemethods.SomeNWgroupsseekgrantsfrom city and private groups. But fundraising byWatchmembers can be an excellent way to increase operatingfundsandincreaseinvolvement.Fundraisingopensdoorsforactivities.Inadditionthegroupbecomesstrongerasavisioniscreatedthroughactionandgoalsareachievedasagroup.
ID TheftIdentitytheftisahugeissueforcommunitymembers.
Whenaperson’sidentityhasbeencompromisedthroughasocialsecuritynumber,creditcard,ordriver’slicenseitcanbeadaunting task tocleanupandmakesure thevictimisprotectedfromfutureattempts.ForinformationandtodownloadmaterialsonfightingIDtheft,visittheNationalCrimePreventionCouncil’swebsiteatwww.ncpc.org.ThissitehastipsonpreventingIDtheft,creatingawarenessofhowidentitiescanbestolenandfreebrochurestodistributetocommunitymembers.HoldingmeetingsonpreventingID theft is a great way to encourage excitement forNWandshownewmembershowNWisnotjustaboutcrimepreventionforthehome.
orinvehiclestokeeptheircommunitysafe.Patrolsmaybeeffectiveforyourgroup,butyoushoulddiscussitwithyourlaw enforcement liaison. Two ormore individuals, often
17
fromthesamefamily,patrolduringdesignatedtoursofdutyandmaydetectsuspiciousactivitynotnoticedbystationaryobservers. Lost children, stranded motorists, stray dogs,damaged street signs or traffic signals, wandering cattle,and automobile accidents are often discovered by citizenpatrols.
Patrolmembersshouldbetrainedbylawenforcement.Itshouldbeemphasizedtomembersthattheydonotpossesspolicepowersandtheyshallnotcarryweaponsorpursuevehicles.They shouldalsobecautioned toalertpoliceordeputies when encountering strange activity. Membersshould never confront suspicious persons who could bearmed and dangerous. Patrol members can be equippedfortheirduties.Forexample,flashlightsorsearchlightsarenecessary for night patrols.Manymobile patrols use cellphonesortwo-wayradiostocontactacitizen-mannedbasestation, which in turn contacts law enforcement officialswhennecessary.Rememberyourpartnershipsandaskfordonationsfromlocalbusinesses.
Safe Houses for ChildrenAsafe location suchas theMcGruffHouseorBlock
Houseisidentifiedbybrightstickersonwindowsanddoorswhichindicatethattheoccupantsareblockparentswillingtohelpafrightenedorpursuedchildifneeded.Ideally,theadults participating in a block house program are eitherretired or otherwise not employed out of the home andavailable for assistanceduring theday.After your agencyhasconductedabackgroundcheckonjuvenileandadultsin the home, there is a clear understanding about thetypesof assistance ablockparent should and shouldnotattempttorendertoachildindistress.Signsandstickersshouldbedisplayedonlywhen theblockparent is in thehouseandwithinhearingdistanceofthedoorbell.Officersshould have a list of authorized safe houses and checkneighborhoodsperiodicallytoensurethatonlyauthorizedhomes display the signs. Contact your law enforcementliaisonformoreinformation.
Please review Chapter 8 for activities related to
emergency preparedness, and natural and man-made disasters.
18
Chapter 5
Revitalizing & MaintainingWatch Groups
OneofthebiggestchallengestoNeighborhoodWatchismaintainingmomentumaftertheproblemsare“solved.”When NW groups organize around safety concerns,enthusiasm isusuallyhighandparticipationgood.A fewmonthslater,theexcitementdiesdownandcommunicationoftensags.Inordertomaintainastronggroup,expandthefocusof yourWatch group. It is important to findotheractivitiestokeepyourgroupengaged.ThenewlyrevitalizedUSAonWatchprogramembracesthisideabyencouragingpartnershipsandviewingNWinanall-hazardsapproach.
• Developanemailnewsletter.Anelectronicnewsletterwill save copying and mailing costs, can provideessentialinformation,andoftenmaybelinkedtoyourlocallawenforcementagency’shomepage.
• Form a team to actively recruit new members orencourage previous members to attend. Lack ofattendance can sometimesbe a lackof information.If neighbors are informed about safety and securityissuestheymaybemorewillingtoattend.
Start Up Training SessionsStart and participate in training sessions given by
volunteers. Some suggested topics are observation skills,what observations to report to police, first aid training,communitydisastertraining,etc..
Creative Pot-Luck’s or Bar-B-Ques Gettogetherevery3-6monthsto‘re-connect’,keepit
funandlight.
Local Interest GroupsPoliticiansandcommunityservicegroupscouldshare
whatishappeningwithyourgroup.
Group Activities• Helpneighborstrimbushesandtreesforbettervisibility.• Helpremovegraffitirightaway.• Invitethefiredepartmenttotalkaboutfirepreventionanddisasterpreparedness.• Geteachneighbortomaketheirhousenumberseasytoseeatnight.• Helpeachotherreinforcedoorframes,hinges,andlocksforwindows.
Recognizing Your VolunteersPeople need to feel appreciated when they give up
time for their community. Inorder tokeepWatchgroupmembersinvolvedandexcited,taketimeouttorecognizethem. There are two basic forms of recognitions: formaland informal. Formal recognition often occurs in anorganized setting such as a recognitiondinner, receptionetc. Informal recognition includes simple things such asa thankyounote. Use the formof recognition thatwillbestmotivateyourvolunteers.Therearealsotwotypesofrecognition:awardsandrewards.Theawardstype,suchascertificates or plaques, are often seen in formal settings,suchasatconferencesortownmeetings.Rewardsareatypeof recognition that are often seen in an informal settingand can bemore of a thank you gift for services. Somesuggestions for rewards are a gift certificate for volunteerserviceoragift forparticipation. Theymayalso includeajobpromotionoranopportunitytolearnanewskillbytraining.
20
Chapter 6
Neighborhood Watch SkillsUsing Your “Eyes and Ears”
Once you have established a strongWatch group, itis important to startbuilding skillsneeded tomakeyourgroupasuccess.WhileNWexistsformorethanjustcrimeprevention, it is important to build the skills necessaryfor preventing crime as well as terrorist activity, andpreparedness for natural/man-made disasters. Scheduletrainingsessionswithyourlawenforcementliaisonorotherlawenforcementagenciesthatmighthavetrainingcourses.The National Sheriffs’ Association offers skill buildingtraining through theNeighborhoodWatchToolkit.YourlocallawenforcementmayalreadyhaveaToolkityoucanborrow for yourmeetings. Also look for other resourcessuch as your state crime prevention association or theNationalCrimePreventionCouncilwhomayholdtraininginyourarea.
everyday events. However beginning to recognize whatis normal around you is the first step in recognizingwhat is not normal. Although law enforcement officersare trained observers, sometimes they find it difficult toexplain to citizenswhat to report andwhen to report it.Whilepatrollingthestreets,officersgetusedtolookingforactivitiesoreventsthatseemoutofplaceorarenotpartoftheregularorordinaryroutine.Officersmaynotbeabletoarticulatespecificallywhatisunusual,buttheyarekeenlyawarethatsomethingisawry.Officerssometimesreferto
thisphenomenonasa“sixthsense”or“streetsmarts,”andthey instinctively knowwhen something is not right andtheyshouldinvestigate.Communitymembersshouldknowtheyhavetheabilitytorecognizeunusualeventsaswell.Itis amatterofpracticingobservation skills tomake themstronger.
OneofthekeystoasuccessfulNeighborhoodWatchprogram is recognizing the importance of using good
21
observationskillstokeepyourneighborhoodsafe.Practicelookingatpicturesofpeopletoknowhowtodescribethem.Clothingisimportant,butlookforthingsthatcannotbechanged,likeskinoreyecolor,tattoos,scars,moles,heightand weight. Properly observingvehicles is similar to observingindividuals. You always begin withthe basics, such as the make andmodel of the vehicle. Identify thevehicleasaFord,Chevrolet,Dodge,Honda,Mercedes,Volvo,etc.Thenidentifytheboththetypeofvehicle(such an SUV, pickup truck, etc.),as well as the specific model ifpossible (such as Corolla, Accord,Expedition, etc.) To rememberlicense plates: write it on paper, on your hand, or evenscratch it in the dirt! Licensenumbers are useful only iftheyarecorrect.Neverhesitatetosay,“I’mnotsure.”Witha vehicle description, even a partial license plate can bevaluable.
What is Suspicious Activity?All too often citizens are confused about what they
shouldreportandwhy,soitisimportanttotraincitizensthrough a variety of reporting activities. After reviewingthis section, participants will be able to advise citizensspecifically on the appropriate who, what, when, where,and how of reporting. Often citizens ask officers “WhyshouldIget involved?”or“HowamIgoing tobenefitbyreporting suspicious activity?”Although the answersmayseem obvious, it must be clearly communicated to thepublicthattheyareanessentialcomponentinprotectingour communities. Sometimesourcitizensreceivemixedsignalsregarding what to report andwhen to report it. Other timesthey simplydonot knowwhat isexpectedofthem.Itisimportantto learn specific definitionsand details to provide Watchvolunteerswithclearandconciseinformation.Beginwithdefining“suspicious activity.” Officersshould know the definition ofsuspicious activity and be able to properly communicatethis definition to Watch members and other concernedcitizens.Suspiciousactivitycanrefertoanyincident,event,individualor activity that seemsunusualoroutofplace.Somecommonexamplesofsuspiciousactivitiesinclude:
• Signs of forced entry or tampering with security orsafetysystems.
The effectiveness of the police and sheriffs’ officesefforts is enhancedby activeparticipationon thepartofcitizens.Bycallingtoreportsuspiciouspersonsoractivity,younotonlyaid thepolice,youmakeyourcommunityasaferplace to live. Somepeople fail to call because theyarenotawareofactivitiesthatmightbesuspicious.Othersmaynoticesuspiciousactivityandhesitate tocall for fearofbeing labeleda“nosyneighbor.”Stillothers take it forgrantedthatsomeoneelsehasalreadycalled.Alwaysreportsuspiciousactivityandallcrimesbecausepolicedon’tknowthere’saproblemunlesstheyaretold.
Knowing What and
How to ReportThere are four general
categories to consider whendetermining what to report: 1)suspiciousactivities,2)peopleandvehicles; 3) illegal activities; and4) unusual events or incidents,dangeroussituations.
By reporting these typesof activities and situations, citizens can make theircommunities safer and more secure, reduce violence,minimize victimization, reduce crime, and improve theoverallqualityof life.Communitymembersmustalsobeinstructedonhowtoreportsuspiciousactivity.Toreportsuspiciousactivities,crimesinprogress,orpossibleterroristactivities,simply:
OneideaforacreativeNWmeetingistovisitthelocal9-1-1 dispatch center. If someone is willing to take yourWatch group or even the Area Coordinators and BlockCaptains around the center, community members willunderstand the fast pace of a 9-1-1 call center. This willemphasizetheneedforclearreportsofsuspiciousactivity.Some9-1-1centerswon’tacceptnon-emergencycalls;theywillgiveanothernumbertocall.DuringoneofyourfirstWatchmeetingsyoushouldfindoutallthelocalnumberstocallfornon-emergencycallstothepolice.Onlyseriousand legitimate calls should be made to 9-1-1, no matterwhat.Teachchildrenhowtorespectthe9-1-1systemandhowtouseitiftheyarealone.Childrenlearnby“doing”but practice on a toy phoneonly.Encourage them to begoodcitizens;helpthemlearntowatchfortroubleandhowtogethelpwhenneeded.
Whenyouhaveanofficerattendameetingyoumightsuggest they go over what happens to the informationprovidedto911andwhennottocall911.
When to Call 911 and When Not!Calling 911 is an important communications tool
for emergencies.However, some citizens call 911 in non-emergencysituations.Thiscancausethedispatchoperatortomissacallofapersonneedinghelp.Itisimportantthatnotonlyyourgroupsbutall citizensunderstandwhen tocallandwhennottocall911.
When To Call
• Medical emergency (examples: chest pain, extremeshortnessofbreath,uncontrolledbleeding).
When Not to Call• Thepowerisoff.• Askingfordirectionstothehospital.• Askingfortelephonenumbersofothers.• Requestingtospeakwithaparticularofficer.• Inquiringastothetimeandday.• Inquiringaboutcommunityactivitiesandlocations.
Physical Setting – specific location____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
People – What do they look like? How are they acting? How many are there?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Specific Items – What aspects are important?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Routines – Did you notice any recurring patterns or routines? How often didthey occur? Who was involved?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Stay calmRemain alert to your surroundingsBegin with the basicsMove to the specificsBroaden your perspectiveAdd detail
24
Chapter 7
Establishing Partnerships
OneofthefoundationsoftherevitalizedUSAonWatch-National Neighborhood Watch program is an emphasisonpartnerships. Potential partners can be any formal ororganizedgroupthataNWgrouppartnerswithtoimprovesafety, security, and quality of life. NW partners can becitizengroupsand/orcityorregionalgovernmentagencies.Thesegroupsprovideinformation,resources,andsupport.Theyhelpbroaden the scopeofNWgroups andhelp tocoordinate responses for neighborhood issues. To ensuresuccessful partnerships, Area Coordinators and BlockCaptainsshouldremembercommunication,coordination,cooperation,andcollaborationtechniques.
Communication –Theagreement to share thoughts,ideasandinformation.Communicationneednotrequireface-to-faceinteraction,butcanbeaccomplishedthroughletters,telephonecalls,reports,oremail.Communicationrequiresamessage,sender,andareceiver.
Coordination–This is critical to creatingand sustaining partnerships and citizeninvolvement.Theamountornatureofinteractioncancoverarangeofactivitiessuchasarrangingfor Community Emergency Response Training(CERT)orhelpingtoarrangeanevent.
Cooperation – This occurs when two ormore communicating individualsor groups agree tohelpeachotherwithtasks.
Identifying ResourcesThink about your NW program and the
community surrounding you. Partnershipsaren’t just important for training and activities, but alsofinancialassistance,personnel,andmaterials.• Financial resources can includeboth individual and
outsideagencyresources.• Personnel resources can include items as such as
individualskillsorpossessions.
25
• Materials can range from items such as trainingmaterialstobuildingmaterials.
• Training resources can come from individuals oroutsideagencies(i.e.,locallawenforcementagency).
• Organizations that can serve as resources includesocialserviceagenciesandcivicgroupssuchasKiwanisorRotary.Thesegroupscanprovideeverythingfromspeakerstovolunteers.
BuildingpartnershipswithinyourcommunitycanaddstrengthtoyourNWgroup.Don’tlimityourself!Becreativewhenlookingforpartnersandresources.Lawenforcementofficers should be aware that there are a wide range ofbothpublicandprivateorganizationsthatareavailabletosupportandenhancetheeffortsofWatchgroups.
Citizen CorpsThemission ofCitizenCorps is to harness the power
of every individual through education, training, andvolunteerservicetohelpmakecommunitiessafer,stronger,and better prepared to respond to threats of terrorism,crime, public health issues, and disasters.After September11, 2001, America witnessed a wellspring of selflessnessandheroism. People in every corner of the country asked,“HowcanIhelp?”CitizenCorpswascreatedtoanswerthesequestions throughpubliceducationandoutreach, training,and volunteer service. Citizen Corps Councils help drivelocal citizen participation by coordinating Citizen Corpsprograms, developing community action plans, assessingpossiblethreats,andidentifyinglocalresources.www.citizencorps.gov
TherearefiveCitizenCorpsProgramPartners.Thesepartners expand the resources and materials availableto states and local communities by offering resourcesfor public education, outreach, and training; representvolunteersinterestedinhelpingtomaketheircommunitysafer; or offer volunteer service opportunities to supportfirst responders, disaster relief activities, and communitysafetyefforts.
Volunteers in Police ServiceTheVolunteersinPoliceService(VIPS)programworks
educates people about disaster preparedness and trainsthem in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety,light search and rescue, and disastermedical operations.Using their training,CERTmemberscanassistothers intheir neighborhood orworkplace following an event andcantakeamoreactiveroleinpreparingtheircommunity.TheprogramisadministeredbyDepartmentofHomelandSecurity(DHS).www.citizencorps.gov/cert
Medical Reserve CorpsThe Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) strengthens
communities by helpingmedical, public health, and othervolunteersoffer their expertise throughout the year aswellasduring local emergencies andother timesof communityneed.MRC volunteers work in coordination with existinglocal emergency response programs and also supplementexistingcommunitypublichealthinitiatives,suchasoutreachandprevention,immunizationprograms,blooddrives,casemanagement, care planning, and other efforts. The MRCprogram is administered by Department of Health andHumanServices(HHS).www.medicalreservecorps.gov
Fire CorpsFire Corps promotes the use of citizen advocates to
enhance the capacity of resource-constrained fire andrescue departments at all levels, whether volunteer orcareer. Citizen advocates assist local fire departments infire safety outreach, youth programs, and administrativesupport. Fire Corps provides resources to assist fire andrescue departments in creating opportunities for citizenadvocates and promotes citizen participation. Fire CorpsisfundedthroughDHSandismanagedandimplementedthroughapartnershipbetweentheNationalVolunteerFireCouncil,theInternationalAssociationofFireFighters,andtheInternationalAssociationofFireChiefs.www.firecorps.org
26
Chapter 8
Neighborhood Watch’s Expanded Role
Emergency Preparedness and
Homeland SecurityOne of the newer elements of NeighborhoodWatch
is the expanded role that now includes awareness andreportingofpossibleterroristactivities.SinceSeptember11,2001,thefederalgovernmenthasissuedheightenedstatesofalertforlocallawenforcement,andhasurgedAmericanstoremainvigilantforthethreatofnewterroristactivities.Theneedforstrengtheningandsecuringcommunitieshasbecome more important than ever. For 35 years Watchgroupshaveworkedsuccessfullytoaddresscrimepreventionissuesandtorestorepridetoneighborhoods.Nowtheyfaceanewchallenge:helping local residentsbecomeacriticalelement in the detection, prevention, and disruption ofterrorism.Althoughgovernmentagenciesassumemostofthe responsibility for detecting and preventing terrorism,preparedness is the jobof the individual citizens aswell.Disastercanstrikequickly.Whetheradisasterisanaturalevent, a technological event, or an act of terrorism, theimportanceofpreparednessisthesame.
officials,lawenforcement,andresidentsfortheprotectionof thecommunity,makingNWanexcellentprogramforpromotingbothcitizenawarenessandpreparednessinthewar against terrorism. To strengthen communities and
Terroristsuse fear to getattentionandshowthe seriousness oftheirintentandtoleave victims withan unforgettable
27
impression. Their hope is to cause panic and seriousdisruption of services and everyday activities goes farbeyondtheimpactoftheimmediatevictims.Byattemptingtodemoralizeus,theterroristsseektoattackournationalpsychebyshockingorparalyzingusintoinactivity.Aspartofasuccessfulterrorismawarenessandpreventionstrategy,wemustnotonlyknowwhatterroristsdo,butalso learnaboutwhotheyareandwhattheybelieve.Beingawareofthis andmore importantly,who they target, allowsus touseourresourcesmosteffectivelyandefficientlytoaddresstheirthreatsandattacks.
Bypracticing the following common sense guidelinesforobservingandreporting,youcanactivelyincreasesafetyandsecurityagainstapotentialterroristact—andeverydaycrimeandviolence.
• Make sure community members know what kindof suspicious activity to look for and how to reportit to law enforcement. Invite a representative fromyour local law enforcement agency or emergencymanagementofficetospeakwithyourWatchgroup.
• Develop a neighborhood evacuation plan. Create aneighborhood directory with phone numbers andemail addresses for all communitymembers, notingcontactinformationandplansforchildrenandseniorswhomaybealoneduringemergencies.
• Encourage members to develop an individualemergencypreparednessplanandsharethisplanwiththeentirefamily.
• Develop a preparedness kit and have supplies forshelteringinplace.
• Discuss local warning systems and how to findinformation on evacuation routes, schedule, andtemporarysheltersinanemergency.
• Discuss how to report suspicious terrorist activity.UsuallyNWmembersare trained to report to locallawenforcement,butinthecaseofterrorismitmightbe more appropriate to report to a local FederalBureauofInvestigationsoffice.CheckwithyourNWofficer to findoutwhat isbest foryour jurisdiction.Also,localemergencyagencieswillgivedirectionstocitizensregardingwhattodoviathepublicemergencybroadcasts.
Disasters: Are you Ready?Checkwithyourlocalfiredepartmenttofindoutabout
the classes and training they offer in first aid,CPR, firesuppression,anddisasterpreparedness.CERT(CommunityEmergency Response Teams) includes extensive trainingforcitizensondisasterpreparednessfortheneighborhood.Someofthesubjectsinclude:
• Disasterfirstaid.• Howtotriageandsetupmedicalareas.• Howtofightfiresandturnoffgaslines.• How to inspect buildings and mark them after
inspecting.
Thefirststepismakingsureyourfamilyissafeandyouhavewhatyouneedtostaysafeandhealthyforthedurationandaftermathofadisaster.Suppliesmustbereadybecauseyouusuallydon’tgetmuchwarningortimetogatherandpacksupplies. If youwait, youmaynot findmuch in thestores after everyone else scrambles for food, medicalsupplies,batteries,andwater.Makeitafamilyactivitytogetemergencysupplies together.Childrencanrotatesuppliestokeepwater,batteries,andfoodfresh.Youshouldpracticefireescapeplansanddisasterevacuationplansacoupleoftimes a year. Thisway, if the “real” thing happens, yourfamilywillbecalmand levelheaded.Useold suitcases topack disaster clothing and personal items; they are easytograb inahurry.Ask your firedepartment for a listofitemsneededfordisasterkits.Individualswithdisabilitiesneed toplan for specialneeds. For example, they shouldhaveapairofworkglovesattachedtotheundersideoftheirwheelchairincasetheyhavetorollthroughdebris,brokenglass,etc.Don’tforgettoplanforthesuppliesyourpetswillneed.YourWatchgroupshouldhavealistofresidentswhowillneedassistance.
Disaster Preparedness KitWhile it may not be fun to think about a disaster
occurringinyourcommunity,thechancesitmayhappenare possible and the type of disaster varies from whereyou live.However, yourWatch group canmakeDisasterPreparedness fun by holding a meeting to educate onevacuationplans,thentakethetimetocreatePreparednessKitstogether.Haveeachhouseholdbuyitemsinbulk,thensharewitheachotherinordertoreducecosts.Don’tforgetto use the partnerships you’ve developed and see if localbusinessesorgovernmentagenciescandonatesupplies toyou.
• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper.When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach,bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in anemergency,youcanuse it to treatwaterbyusing16dropsofregularhouseholdliquidbleachpergallonofwater.Donotusescented,colorsafe,orbleacheswithaddedcleaners.
Through its Ready Campaign, the U.S. DepartmentofHomelandSecurityeducatesandempowersAmericansto take some simple steps to prepare for and respond topotential emergencies, including natural disasters andterrorist attacks. Ready asks individuals to do threekey things: get an emergency supply kit, make a familyemergencyplan,andbeinformedaboutthedifferenttypesof emergencies that could occur and their appropriateresponses.AllAmericansshouldhavesomebasicsupplieson hand in order to survive for at least three days if anemergencyoccurs.Theprevioussection listedbasic itemsthateveryemergencysupplykitshouldinclude.However,itisimportantthatindividualsreviewthislistandconsiderwhere they live and the unique needs of their family inordertocreateanemergencysupplykitthatwillmeettheseneeds.Individualsshouldalsoconsiderhavingatleasttwoemergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smallerportable kits in their workplace, vehicle, or other placestheyspendtime.
Formore information on preparing your family andcommunity for a disaster check out the www.Ready.govwebsite.There are tips to prepare for particular disastersaffecting your area as well as downloadable forms andchecklists.
TakesometimetoexploretheUSAonWatchwebsitefor information and materiels regarding pandemic flupreparedness and other topics on preparedness that canbebeneficialtoyourgroup.Itisimportantforyourgroupto be prepared for all hazards due to the reduced accesswithfirstrespondersintheeventofacommunitydisaster.A number of printable resources that can assist a groupin organizing and preparing for all hazards, along withrecommendations son other important resources, can befoundatUSAonWatch.org.
29
Chapter 9
Basic Home Security
TheoriginalpurposeofNWwastoincreaseawarenessin communities about ways to protect homes fromburglaries. Although NW has expanded over the years,protectinghomesisstillapriority.Sincemostburglariesandtheftsarecrimesofopportunity,themoreobstaclesthatweputinplacetoprotectourselves,thelessthechanceofourbeingvictimized.Insports,themoredefensesateamhas,andthebetterthatdefenseis,thelesslikelytheopponentwillbetoscore. Intargethardening,wewantto increaseour “defense” by identifying multiple methods that youcanemploytoprotectyourselfandstopthecriminal.Somearecommonsensemethods that cost littleorno timeoreffort,whileothersmaybemorecomplicated.Thenumberofhomeburglaries is stillhighandcommunitymembersshoulddoeverythingpossibletopreventburglaries.Whenapersonfallsvictimtoanattackontheirhometheyfeelvulnerableandusuallydonotrecoverthestolenproperty.Law enforcement canhelp citizens protect their propertynot just tokeep crime rates low,but also to increase thelikelihoodofrecoveringstolenproperty.
Basic Home Target Hardening Techniques
When developing a target hardening program toprotect against home burglaries, law enforcement cansuggest a variety of options. Target hardening can rangefrom the purchase of elaborate alarm systemswith everypossibletypeofmonitor,tobuyingadogthatannounces
the arrival of anyone at your door. NSA offers a TargetHardening course through the Neighborhood WatchToolkit,oryoucancontactyourlocallawenforcementforassistance in developing strategies. These techniques aredesignedtoassisthomeownersinprotectingtheirpropertyby using simple, cost-effective crime preventionmethods.These include using appropriate doors, locks, windows,lighting, appearance, alarms, and garages, and providesomehelpfulhints that range across several categories ofsafetyandsecurity.
Assessing the StructureWhenscanningahome,youbeginyourhomeburglary
risk assessment with the front door and work your wayaround the house. Start at the entryway of the house orapartmentandobservethedoor,thelocks,nearbywindows,entryarealighting,andthegeneralappearanceofthehome,aswellasotherfeaturessuchaswhetheranalarmsystemispresent.Next,movecounterclockwisearoundtothesideandbackwhereyoumayencounteragarage,shed,orotherareasthatneedtobesecured.
DoorsAs theprimarypointof entry formanyburglars, the
firstitemtoinspectisthefrontdoor.Hollow-coreorpoorlyfitting doors can mean trouble, as can front doors thatarenotequippedwithproperdeadbolt locks(at leastoneinch). All exterior doors should be metal or solid wood
30
andhavestrongdoorhingesontheinsideofthedoorwithhiddenornon-removablepins.Officersshouldrecommendhomeowners install good quality deadbolt locks on allexterior doors and on any doors that open to attachedgarages.
deadbolt locks extending at least one inch when in thelockedposition.Theymayalsowanttoconsiderdeadboltswithreinforcedstrikeplatesandextralongmountingscrewsto anchor the lock. Finally, if there is a change inhomeownership, recommendall locksbe changed immediatelyto avoid the possibility that extra keys to the housemaybe in the hands of unknown individuals. High qualitysecurity locksareavailableatmostmajormarketretailersandhardwarestores.
LightingAlthough lighting is often considered decorative, a
welllithousecanexposeindividualsattemptingtoconcealthemselves and commit criminal acts. Officers shoulddiscuss the use of both interior and exterior lighting. Alightingauditshouldbecompletedafterdarktobecertainyouareevaluatingartificialilluminationandnotdaylight.Itisokayifthenightisbrightduetomoonlight.Atleasttwo peoplewill need towork together so you can checkfor things like color recognition/identification. Workinginpairs isalsoagoodideaforreasonsofpersonalsafety.In areas less lighted at night youmight considermotiondetectorlightingorsensorlights.
AlarmsThemerepresenceof some alarm systemsmaydeter
potentialburglars.Alarmcompanysignsplacedintheyard,stickers on thewindows, and visible contacts or keypadsare often enough to cause the average burglar to thinktwicebeforetryingtobreakin.Sinceburglaryisacrimeofopportunity,thepotentialthiefmaydecidetomoveontoalocationthatdoesnothaveanalarmsystem.Therearemanytypesofalarmsystemsonthemarketincludingmonitored,
non-monitored, audible, wireless, sound-based, motion-based, etc. Inmany jurisdictions, alarmpermitsmust bepurchasedandtheremaybepenaltiesforfalsealarms.Thepurchaseofanalarmsystemanditsaccompanyingserviceormonitoringfeescanbeamajorfinancialcommitment,and is one that should be thoroughly researched by thehomeowner.
GaragesWhen it comes to security, the garage is one area of
thehomethatiscommonlyoverlooked.Manygarageshaveelectronic garage door openers that give the homeownera false feelingof security.Anotheroften ignoredelementof the garage is thedoor that connects the garage to thehouse.Ifthisdoorisnotkeptsecure,thenanyoneenteringthegaragecanenterthehouse.Inordertoincreasegaragesecurity and house security, residents should always lockthedoorsconnectingahometoanattachedgarage.Theyshould not rely on an automatic garage door opener forsecurity.Athome,peopleshouldalwaysparktheircarsinthegaragewith thegaragedoor shut. Ifaburglarnoticesa patternwhere the garage door is left open, or cars arenormally parked in the driveway whenever someone ishome,thenaclosedgaragedoorornocarsinthedrivewaymay be a giveaway that no one is home. Consistency inleavingthecarsinthegaragebehindcloseddoorswillkeepfromtippingofftheburglarthatthehomeisunoccupied.Besides, leaving the garagedooropenallows strangers toseewhateverbelongingsarestoredinthegarage.It’sagoodideaforhomeownerstoinstallautomaticopenersthatwillallowthemtostay intheircarsuntil safelyparkedinthegarage.
Exterior AppearancesMaking sure your trees and bushes are trimmed and
don’t provide secluded shelter for a robber is important.CrimePreventionThroughEnvironmentalDesign(CPTED)refers to how to use various crime prevention techniqueswhile maintaining or improving the appearance of theproperty.SomelessonsborrowedfromCPTEDmayinclude:using fences,walkways, and shrubs to direct visitor access;limitentryorcallattentiontoindividualswhohavedeviatedfromthedesignatedpathway;plantingthornybushesaroundwindows to make illegal entry more difficult; trimmingshrubsandtreesthatcouldconcealcriminals;cuttingbacktreelimbsthatmightallowthievestoclimbintowindows;andusinglandscapingdesignsthatprovidemaximumvisibilitytoandfromthehouse.ContactyourlawenforcementliaisontorequestanofficercertifiedinCPTEDtoanalyzethehomesinyourcommunity.
31
Engravers are inexpensive tools that can save youthousandsofdollars.Pass thehat tobuyaneighborhoodengravertoshare.Ifyousellengraveditems,etchonelinethroughyournumbersoit’sstillreadable.Initialitandgivethebuyerabillofsaledescribingtheitem.
Property ListIt’s a good idea for community members to make a
list of their property, includingCDs,DVDs, videos, andany other collectible items. The list should be kept in asafeplace.Alistsavedonthecomputerisnogoodiftheburglarsstealthecomputertoo!Peopleshouldtakephotosofexpensiveitems,suchasjewelry,andfillina“PropertyInventoryForm”(availablethroughNeighborhoodWatch)tohelppolicereturnanyrecoveredproperty.Finally, it isimperative to remember that maintaining current andadequateinsurancecoverageisveryimportant.
Build a Stronger Community Gettoknowyourneighbors.Inourfast-pacedworldwedon’tspendenoughtimelearningaboutourneigh-bors.Watchgroupsgivecommunitymembersareasontogettogetherandtalkaboutmakingtheircommunityabetterplace.NeighborhoodWatchActivitiesareafunwayforcommunitymemberstogettoknoweachotherwhilemakingadifference.
