Have you and your neighbors formed a Block Watch?
Why Have a Block Watch?
Neighbors working together are the first and best line of defense against crime.
How Does Block Watch Work?
Block Watch requires two basic commitments:
- A commitment to be concerned about your neighbor’s property and well-being as well as your own.
- A commitment to report suspicious activity and take action by alerting your neighbors and calling 9-1-1.
Getting Started
- Think of a location for your first meeting. It could be your home, or a neighbor’s home, library or community center, etc.
- Contact the Crime Prevention Coordinators in our North Precinct for dates and times to meet with you and your neighbors. gov/police/crime-prevention/crime-prevention-coordinators.
- Invite your neighbors to come – it helps to invite them in person.
- The first meeting will discuss local crime trends, prevention measures and the proactive ways neighbors can work together.
- The designated Block Watch Captain will act as primary contact for Seattle Police, and communicate to the neighborhood.
I think a less formal approach to a blockwatch can also work. Such as hosting an annual potluck on the Seattle Night Out (1st Tuesday evening in August) and having a email/phone contact list for the folks on your steet.