In Omaha, a typical citizens patrol member is on the street from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. on a weekend night. In Grand Island, members of the Third City Radio Association may be on the streets even longer. Depending on the number of active volunteers, citizens might be asked to patrol one night a month or less often. In Grand Island, radio association patrols usually serve more frequently. Citizens patrol members do not carry weapons of any type.
Most citizens patrols require that volunteers work in pairs.
The Third City Radio Association welcomes additional help with its citizens patrols. Matthew, on the other hand, tends to be ornery and could use the self-discipline, she said. As a result of taking the class for several months, both boys have improved their self-esteem. They are instead taught to defend themselves with takedowns, kicks and breakaways, and each move involves years of practice. Students must learn nine levels of techniques before reaching the black-belt level, their eventual goal.