HISTORY OF COMMUNITY WATCH

            Community Watch is a program that was started by the National Sheriffs' Association at the request of the Chiefs of Police and Sheriffs from around the country. For over thirty years it has been a successful tool in effectively preventing crime. Community Watch is one of the main components of the Bush Administration's Citizen Corps volunteer initiative. In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, President Bush announced that the Community Watch Program would be taking on an even greater significance. As citizens join together, their community becomes a safer place and the quality of life is preserved.

COMMUNITY WATCH IS A PROGRAM THAT:

1.  Teaches citizens techniques to reduce the risk of being victimized at home and in public.

2.  Trains citizens on the importance of recognizing suspicious activities and how to report them.

3.  Teaches participants how to make their homes more secure and properly identify their property.

4.  Allows neighbors to get to know each other and their routines so that any out-of-place activity can be reported and investigated.

5.  Increases awareness of possible threats to the community.

6.  Builds a cohesive body of concerned citizens addressing issues that concern the entire community.

COMMUNITY WATCH IS NOT:

1.  A vigilante force working outside the normal procedures of law enforcement.

2.  A program designed for participants to take personal risks to prevent crime.

3.  A 100% guarantee that crime will not occur in your neighborhood.

            Community Watch programs have proven themselves to be effective not only in the fight against crime but to improve the well-being of the entire community. By cooperating with one another and the members of the police department, we can make our neighborhoods a better and safer place to live.

OUR LOCAL PROGRAM AND HOW IT WORKS

            The Warwick Township Police Department oversees our Community Watch Program. From each neighborhood, a Block Captain is chosen. This person is responsible for setting up an e-mail or phone chain to pass information to his/her neighbors. A citizen Coordinator serves as the liaison between the police and the block captains. Once the neighborhood groups are in place, the police will be able to have contact with the citizens. Information, such as crime patterns, innovative ideas on how to make your home safer, or how to prepare your family for an emergency can be sent through the chains. Citizens will also be able to pass information to the police through the chain.

            The success of Community Watch depends on the participation of each Warwick Township citizen. As we join together, we can build a stronger and safer community. Consider how you can become involved today! 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To join the Community Watch Program in Warwick Township or to receive more information, contact:

                                    Warwick Township Police Department

                                                     (717) 626-3162

Or e-mail us at:

                                    communitywatch@warwicktownship.org