Neighborhood Watch
 
What is Neighborhood Watch? 
Neighborhood Watch is a crime prevention program that allows neighbors to get to know one another and involves them in keeping their neighborhood and community safe.  As a neighborhood watch group you will work closely with the police department and learn how to:
  • Recognize and report crimes and suspicious activities;
  • Protect your family and property;
  • Protect your neighbors and their property;
  • Identify problems in your area and work with the Police Department to find a solutions.
How to start a group 
  • Talk with your neighbors- See if there is an interest in starting a neighborhood watch in your area.  Remember do not wait until someone becomes a victim, the earlier you start a neighborhood watch the better.  If there is an interest contact Mike Hancock, Oakdale Safe Neighbrhoods Association at 209-848-1200 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
  • Follow the first meeting checklist.  starting_a_neighborhood_watch_checklist
  • Find a mentor- We have 24 neighborhood watch groups that are actively participating in the program and our captains are willing to help new captains through the process of starting a neighborhood watch group.
  • Find a neighbor that would like to assist you in being a captain, remember you cannot do it all yourself.  Finding someone to help share the responsibility of being a captain will increase the chance that your group will be successful.
 
How to keep a group involved
  • Many groups meet monthly to discuss their neighborhood and any new issues.  If people are not able to make the meeting be sure to get them the information.  
  •  A representative from the Oakdale Police Department will be present at all meetings to discuss crime trends and answer questions. 
  • To keep your group motivated consider planning special events, for example:
    • Neighborhood Walks to identify potential crime problem
    • Socials (potlucks)
    • Cleaning streets, vacant lots, parks
    • Graffiti paint outs
    • Collecting recyclables to purchase neighborhood watch signs
    • Radar training
    • Replacing lights on lighted resident addresses