How to Manage a Neighborhood Watch

Interface with your local police department. Many local law enforcement agencies have a Neighborhood Watch coordinator who can provide your group with crime statistics, guidance and training in observation and reporting skills. Law enforcement representatives may also conduct community safety, home security and personal safety training programs. The National Sheriffs' Association offers a Neighborhood Watch toolkit to get you started.

Recruit neighbors. This can be done person by person or through organizing a larger gathering in your home. Once you have created interest, organize a larger meeting at a local community center or church. Invite local police or law enforcement to address the group, explain how the Neighborhood Watch program works and answer any questions. Encourage the participants to introduce themselves and get to know one another at the meeting. Once you establish a core group, encourage members to recruit other interested persons.

Select the locations you would like to cover with your patrols. The selection may be based on the natural boundaries of your area, such as a neighborhood, or determined by your membership and available members.

Select a member to fill the position of Block Captain. Block Captains serve as liaisons among the various arms of the organization, interacting with the group members and the police. Additionally, Block Captains can coordinate patrol schedules and walk patrols. Because the position can be labor intensive, particularly if you have only a single Block Captain, you can establish a system to select a new Block Captain periodically or assign Co-Captains.

Assign a Group Coordinator. This member creates and maintains a map of the neighborhood; a list of street names, address and names of residents, license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions; and an updated database of contact information for members within the group, including phone numbers and email addresses. The Group Coordinator also creates and maintains a phone tree for quick, efficient distribution of information and alerts. Block Captains may assist in performing these duties.

Assign a Group Secretary to record minutes at Neighborhood Watch meetings and to assist in creating materials such as flyers and newsletters.

Manage the group directly and stay involved in each aspect of the organization, as leader, or use your time to guide the organization and further its goals while those in other positions maintain the day-to-day functions. Serve as the overall coordinator of your group, act as the face of your organization, and set up regular meetings for updates and to disseminate information.

Keep your group visible. Post signs, decals and flyers in the area to promote the presence and visibility of your group as an added deterrent to crime. Work to develop partnerships with local businesses and to motivate your group's members to stay active and involved.