As a Neighborhood Watch Leader, in the new effort to re-launch a community watch program, I knocked on doors in my neighborhood yesterday. Surprisingly, there weren’t many people at home on a Saturday morning.
Of those that were home, I averaged 66 percent agreeing to become members of West Easton Neighborhood Watch.
4 of 8 homes on Front St.
6 of 9 homes on 2nd St.
4 of 4 homes on 3rd St.
Some of the refusals volunteered some odd reasons for saying, “No.”
“If I can’t carry a gun, I’m not interested.”
“It’s a good idea, but not for me.”
“My neighbors will call me a busybody.”
“I’m seldom home.”
Obviously, these residents don’t understand the benefit of having, and being part of a Neighborhood Watch Program.
It isn’t like they have to pay a membership fee, are obligated to attend meetings, or patrol streets. It’s simply a display of unity in a neighborhood, and knowing that the more homes on their block identifying themselves as members, the less likely their street will be victimized.
I’m a little disappointed that 1 out of 3 people refused to join the program. Two of the residents that said, “No” actually had past experiences of their car rifled through when it was unlocked. I would have thought they wouldn’t hesitate to become a member of a Neighborhood Watch program.
Of course, that number may improve as more people are contacted, or people realize that their neighbors are signing on. I’m hoping one day we’ll see only 1 out of 5 not participating. 80 percent participation would be fantastic.
Obviously, those of us who have volunteered to become Neighborhood Watch Leaders have much work to do in getting people to understand the purpose of a Neighborhood Watch Program and the success it has had in deterring crime in communities that have an active Watch program, working with local law enforcement.
If those of us trying to get members can reach 100 total, I’ll request Council to purchase small yard signs and other items for members. Also, updated street signs for those blocks with at least 50 percent participation.
It shouldn’t be difficult to use a police related grant to pay for the items.
If you haven’t been contacted directly, and want to be a member of the Neighborhood Watch Program, you can call Borough Hall to leave your contact information. A Councilperson involved in the program, or the Mayor, will return your call.
