Highland Park

Neighborhood Watch Program

The Board has heard of recent vandalism incidents in Highland Park. We can help each other by using the Neighborhood Watch Program concepts. By augmenting Police Department resources, this Program is intended to create a greater sense of security because neighbors can “Look Out For Each Other”. Signs are posted at both entrances. The key concepts for homeowners to use are as follows:

*** Know what is “usual and customary” about your neighbors, so that you can tell what is unusual and out of the ordinary”. Don’t be a busybody or invade anyone’s privacy----but do be familiar with who lives in houses (children and teens as well as adults), types of vehicles and daily routines.

*** “Look out for each other” during vacations or extended absences. Use common sense and don’t leave signals indicating “no one is at home”. For example, take action to cover your mail, newspaper, circulars/fliers, garbage cans, and lights.

*** Adhere to good observation techniques: (a) observe secretly, whether in your home, your car or on foot; (b) don’t confront suspects; (c) watch for suspicious people, vehicles or sounds; (d) trust your judgment and recognize when to call for help; (e) write down “what, “when”, “where”, “who”, and license plate number, if it’s safe to obtain it; and (f) periodically practice your observation techniques.

*** When necessary, call for help using the following protocol:

For bona fide emergencies (any crime, fire or serious medical problem in

progress or suspected to be in progress)----call 9-1-1.

For non-emergencies (crimes which have already occurred, non-life threatening situations, minor mischief)----call the Police at 934-1234.

Be prepared with “what”, “when”, “where” and “who”. And don’t hang up until instructed.

Key Point No. 1: don’t hesitate! When your judgment tells you something wrong is happening or about to happen, immediately call the Police !

Key Point No. 2: call immediately, but do not take personal risks to prevent a crime or make an arrest. That’s the responsibility of the Police.

October 19, 2007