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Blockwatch is a part of Daily Neighborhood Life, not a series of meetings |
Blockwatch is a group of neighbors that have made it their duty to watch out for each other. Neighborly concern is not the exception, it is the rule. Blockwatch is a way of organizing neighborhoods into effective crime prevention communities. A person is apt to commit a crime when the following three conditions exist: Desire, Ability and Opportunity. The same should be considered as true when it comes to stopping crime. Blockwatch gives citizens the ability and opportunity to prevent crime, but only if they have the desire to make it work. Starting a Blockwatch: A Blockwatch is best initiated by having a neighborhood meeting. The meeting is held at one of the homes in the neighborhood. A Community Service Officer from the Police Department will make a presentation about crime prevention and how the Blockwatch Program works. The presentation includes information about Operation Identification, home security and personal security. Block Captain: At the meeting a Block Captain or Co-Captains are chosen by the neighbors. The Block Captain or Co-Captains are the coordinators for the neighborhood and have the following responsibilities: " Coordinating the circulation of an engraver to all the households interested in Operation Identification. " Creating a "phone tree" in which members are assigned specific phone numbers to call if information needs to be spread rapidly. " Distributing newsletters or information to each Blockwatch household. " Introducing new neighbors to the Blockwatch concept and giving them the opportunity to participate. If you are interested in starting a Blockwatch program in your neighborhood call the police department at (206) 870-7619 and ask to speak to a community service officer. |
