Crime Watch FAQ’s

What’s involved in running a Neighborhood Watch?
The best way to run a Neighborhood Watch is to delegate tasks and keep your neighbors involved. Tasks include: taking minutes, emailing and calling members prior to meetings, and greeting new neighbors as they move to your street. The more time you spend outside with your neighbors, the more your positive activity will displace negative activity. This will deter crime and the fear of crime while building community at the same time.

How do I find updated public safety information and crime stats?
The Boston Police Department has created BPDNews.com as a one stop shopping resource for the latest public safety news and alerts. Community members are also encouraged to follow us on Facebook and Twitter. You can also sign up to receive Citizen Alerts:www.Citizenobserver.com which are specific to your District. Residents can also look up crime statics specific to a neighborhood or address by visiting Crime Reports: www.Crimereports.com.

How many people are required/needed to start a Neighborhood Watch? 

There is no required number of people needed to start a NW. Any number of interested and active neighbors can make positive changes to their neighborhood by getting involved. Our unit has met with groups who are compromised of only a couple neighbors and we’ve met with groups who are comprised of many more!

How frequently do we meet?
We suggest meeting a minimum of five times per year. Most groups meet monthly or bi-monthly and they usually plan 0ne or two neighborhood social events annually such as a block party. The most important thing to remember is that you are communicating both with each other and with the police.

What if we don’t have any crime issues should we still start a Neighborhood Watch?
Yes! Do not wait for something to happen and have to respond but rather be prepared as a neighborhood and know how to respond. There are always issues in any neighborhood that can use the attention of astute and involved residents.