How to Create a Neighborhood Watch

Creating a neighborhood watch program is a great idea! Not only is it a good way to create community, but it also brings neighbors together around a common goal of making your neighborhood a safer place. To start a neighborhood watch in your Colorado Springs neighborhood, here are some steps to make it happen:

1. Gather Neighbors and Form a Core Group:

• Start with a small group: Begin by talking to a few neighbors who are interested in improving neighborhood safety.
• Hold an initial meeting: Choose a neutral location (like a library or community center) and invite neighbors to discuss forming a neighborhood watch group.

2. Contact the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD):

• Reach out to the crime prevention unit: The CSPD has a crime prevention unit that can provide guidance and support for starting a neighborhood watch.
• Schedule a meeting: Invite a CSPD representative to attend your initial meeting to discuss your plans and how they can help.

3. Develop a Plan and Communication Strategy:

• Discuss concerns: Talk with neighbors about specific safety issues in your area.
• Create a plan: Determine how your neighborhood watch group will operate, including meeting schedules, communication methods, and roles (like block captains).
• Establish a communication plan: Decide how you will share information with neighbors, such as newsletters, email lists, or social media.

4. Key Considerations:

• Emphasize cooperation: Neighborhood watch is a cooperative effort between residents and law enforcement.
• Focus on observation and reporting: Emphasize that the role of neighborhood watch members is to be observant and report suspicious activity to the police, not to act as vigilantes.
• Be proactive: Don’t wait for problems to arise; take proactive steps to improve neighborhood safety.

5. Other Ways to Engage the Community:

• Promote the program: Create fliers, posters, or a website to publicize your neighborhood watch group and its goals. Get involved: Encourage neighbors to participate in activities like neighborhood cleanups, block parties, and crime prevention workshops.
• Build partnerships: Seek out partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and community leaders to support your efforts.