Neighbourhood Watch

Neighbourhood Watch is a program aimed at reducing crime in the community. It involves getting to know one’s neighbours and introducing them to the concept of Neighbourhood Watch – that is, good neighbours working together, alert to the potential of crime and willing to look out for one another’s interests.

Neighbours working together through Neighbourhood Watch can combat crime in their area the most effective way – before it starts. Through the active participation of citizens in crime prevention, Neighbourhood Watch provides a means of reducing the opportunity for crime to occur. Citizens are taught how to make their home less inviting as a target for thieves; how to participate in Operation Identification, making their personal property less desirable to burglars; and, how to be alert to suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods.

Very few people are in a position to protect their homes and property all of the time. Vacation, business and shopping trips, or even an evening out will leave homes unattended and vulnerable to theft. The Neighbourhood Watch program provides a sense of security for individuals or families who leave their homes for any length of time. The program helps to coordinate the efforts of the police and the community in tracking down criminals. Strong community involvement is encouraged because neighbour unity can deter crime. Neighbours joined together do help correct situations that threaten their peace and safety.

Neighbourhood Watch groups have been active in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent for many years. Some of the longest running Neighbourhood Watch groups include Harwich Township, Highgate, Pain Court and Raleigh Township. We also recognize two Community Policing groups in have been active for many years in Blenheim and Ridgetown. Neighbourhood Watch expanded in 2006 to include Blenheim, Bothwell, Chatham, Clachan, Ridgetown, Shrewsbury and Thamesville. In 2007 we welcomed new Neighbourhood Watch groups in Dresden, Grande Point, Mitchell's Bay, Tupperville and Wallaceburg.

Liaison Officers attend the meetings to share recent crime trends and crime prevention information/presentations. If you are interested in joining a Neighbourhood Watch group or starting a Neighbourhood Watch in your area contact the Crime Prevention and Community Safety Section at 519-352-4650.

More information about Neighbourhood Watch can be found at:
www.neighbourhoodwatchregistry.com and information on the Ontario Community Watch Association can be found at: www.ontariocommunitywatch.org.