5 Steps to a Safe Neighborhood

Safer neighborhoods are everyone's responsibility. We have already gotten you started by providing you tools in starting a neighborhood watch program. Now learn the 5 steps to building a safer neighborhood.

Step 1 - Get to Know Your Neighbors

Exchange phone numbers (home, work, cell)
Learn each other’s routines (work schedules, vacation plans, guests’ visits, scheduled workers)
Regularly check on elderly neighbors
Volunteer to pick up your neighbor’s newspapers when they are gone
Organize or join a Neighborhood Watch Group for your block*

Step 2 - Don’t be a Target

Have plenty of lighting around your home; use motion sensors, if possible
Don’t leave window or doors open, even on a hot day, if you are not home
Leave lights on inside your home or use timers when you’re gone
Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight
Secure gates and fences that are easily accessible
Have keys ready when coming home; don’t fumble around at your door
Check your surroundings when approaching your door at night
Be wary of solicitors at your door, even in the day time

Step 3 - Report Suspicious Activity

Call 911 whenever something looks unusual (strange cars with people in them in front of houses; strangers checking out houses or cars)
Have a pen and paper handy to write down details that could help police

Step 4 - Get Out and About

Walk around your neighborhood or sit on your front porch as much as possible
Encourage your neighbors to get out with you

Step 5 - Keep Our Neighborhoods Neat and Clean

Pick up trash, even if it’s not yours or in front of your house
Keep yards maintained and looking good
Trim hedges that can be used as hiding places

These 5 easy steps can help protect your community from exposed danger. Print them out and hand them to your neighbors!