Take a stand against crime
VALERIE BEELMAN, reporter
07-29-2010
Pulaski Crime Prevention Officer Megan Jennings is encouraging all town residents to take a stand against crime and join a Neighborhood Watch group today.
There are several simple steps to start a group. As Jennings works toward certifying Pulaski as a Crime Prevention Community, she will be assisting any citizen groups within the town interested in organizing or participating in a Neighborhood Watch group.
The first step is to recruit and organize a committee of neighbors to discuss the needs of the neighborhood. Next, contact Jennings at Pulaski Police Department to assist the development of the group and provide guidance.
Maintaining a partnership with the police department is a critical aspect of a successful neighborhood watch group.
After consulting with law enforcement, an informational meeting should be held to establish the purpose of the program, recruit additional members, and begin identifying issues that need to be addressed. A neighborhood leader should be selected at this time to act as a liaison with police and volunteers and to keep members of the group informed.
The final steps include establishing citizen patrols to monitor and report suspicious activities and the development of a phone tree. For the group to be successful, regular meetings and training should be held.
“Neighborhood watch groups are a good way to deter crime and help protect safety in the neighborhood. They help improve police and community partnerships, form bonds among neighbors, and reduce fear,” said Jennings.
For more information contact Crime Prevention Officer Megan Jennings at 994-8676 or at mguynn@pulaskitown.org.
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