Do you ever wonder what happened to the classic American neighborhood?  Neighborhoods used to have a real sense of community, and neighbors actually knew each other by name. 

St. Louis gets a bad rap when it comes to crime statistics vs. actual safety. In fact most St. Louis residents say they feel safe walking alone at night in St. Louis. 

Metropolitan boundaries have more to do with the crime statistics being reported by most media outlets than reality. St. Louis finds itself on top ten most dangerous city lists constantly. However, when greater metropolitan statistics (accurate representations of crime) are used instead, St. Louis barely makes it on ‘100 most dangerous cities’ lists.

St. Louis Communities Must Stand Together to Fight Crime

The police can only do so much. Building a strong network of people that feel empowered to report crime and do their best to deter criminal behavior can have a powerful impact on the safety of a neighborhood and of our entire city. Ultimately, it’s up to YOU to make your St. Louis neighborhood safe.

Organizing a neighborhood watch program is a great way for neighbors to stand together against criminals.

According to the National Neighborhood Watch, the purpose of a neighborhood watch is to “unite community members to establish control of their neighborhood to improve quality of life and reduce crime in the area.”  Neighborhood watch programs are bringing residents together across America to fight crime.

How Do I Start a Neighborhood Watch Program?

The National Neighborhood Watch lists five essential steps for establishing and maintaining an effective Neighborhood Watch Program in your area.

Step #1 – Recruit and organize as many neighbors as possible

Step #2 – Meet with local law enforcement

Step #3 – Discuss community concerns and develop an action plan

Step #4 – Create a communication plan

Step #5 – Hold meetings and events

Define The Reach of Your Neighborhood Safety Program

Make sure there isn’t an existing neighborhood watch in your area. If there isn’t an active program, start by mapping out the area your watch will encompass and establish partnerships with residents and local law enforcement.  Address goals and concerns from both law enforcement and residents.  Recruit and teach volunteers, and be sure to select enthusiastic leaders that are well organized.

Organize community projects that will help draw in new recruits and keep volunteers engaged.  Consider projects like cleaning up graffiti or building a neighborhood playground.  It takes patience, planning, and enthusiasm to form a successful Neighborhood Watch Program.

Check out the National Neighborhood Watch website when you are ready and register your watch.

Neighborhood Safety in St. Louis

Sadly, the most dangerous neighborhoods are statistically the least likely to have a neighborhood watch program. If you have an existing neighborhood watch program in one of the safest neighborhoods in St. Louis, do those neighbors a favor and volunteer to help set up a watch program in a less fortunate part of town.

ST. Louis Stands Together Against Crime

When neighbors work together to deter criminals, everyone wins. On a personal level, an electronic security system is one of the best ways to deter burglars from targeting your family’s home. Contact Butler Durrell Security to learn more about setting up an electronic security system, home automation, or monitorecd fire detection equipment.