Block captains also can serve as liaisons between the neighborhood and the police and communicate information about meetings and crime incidents to all residents. Establish a regular means of communicating with Watch members e.g., newsletter, telephone tree, e-mall, fax, etc. Prepare a neighborhood map showing names, addresses, and phone numbers of participating households and distribute to members. Block captains keep this map up to date, contacting newcomers to the neighborhood and rechecking occasionally with ongoing participants. With guidance from a law enforcement agency, 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.
If you are ready to post Neighborhood Watch signs, check with law enforcement to see if they have such eligibility requirements as number of houses that participate in the program. Law enforcement may also be able to provide your program with signs. If not, they can probably tell you where you can order them. Organizers and block captains must emphasize that Watch groups are not vigilantes and do not assume the role of the police. They only ask neighbors to be alert, observant, and caring and to report suspicious activity or crimes immediately to the police.