Starting a Neighborhood Security Watch
The following steps were developed to assist in starting a Neighborhood Security Watch (NSW), Citizens Patrol, or other community policing program.
Step 1: Getting Started
Individuals wanting to start a NSW program should contact the Community Affairs Section, at: (808) 529-3351, or via the internet at honolulupd.org, to request an officer to come to their community for a lecture about the Neighborhood Security Watch Program. The lecture will include what is the NSW program, and the different features that make it up. How to start a program and the overall benefits of the program.
Step 2: Initial Presentation
An officer from the district in which the program is to be established will give an initial presentation on Neighborhood Security Watch and Citizens Patrols. You and your neighbors will then decide what program you want (or both programs). The next step will be to select the persons to represent the neighborhood in the capacity of Coordinator and Block Captain.
Step 3: Signup Members
The coordinator and block captain will gather the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all those interested in becoming involved in the program. That information, along with a map of the area listing streets, ect., will be sent to the police department's district resource officer. The district resource officer will provide to the coordinator materials for all members who have signed up.
Step 4: Program Information
Program information will be forwarded to the district resource officer. The district resource officer will then contact the coordinator and develop the relationship necessary for smooth and cooperative effort between police and the community. With guidance from law enforcement, the watch trains its members in home security techniques, observation skills, and crime reporting. Residents also learn about the types of crime that affect the area.
Step 5: Periodic Review
Hold regular meetings to help residents get to know each other and to collectively decide upon program strategies and activities. Proper vigilance must be practiced for the program to be successful. Information regarding crime and suspicious activity must be disseminated throughout the program in a timely manner.
