Crime Watch programs encourage neighbors to communicate with each other and police to prevent crime in their community. They teach citizens techniques to reduce victimization, recognize suspicious activities, and report crimes. Crime Watch brings citizens and police together to address community needs and safety, but is not a vigilante force or guarantee of no crime. Benefits include stronger community bonds and increased awareness and involvement in local public safety.

1. NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office

2. What is Crime Watch? Crime Watch encourages residents of a particular area to prevent crime by communicating with each other and police. Crime Watch encourages citizens to take an active role in their community by being the eyes and ears for law enforcement.

3. Crime Watch Teaches citizens techniques to reduce the risk of being victimized at home and in public. Trains citizens how to recognize and report crimes and suspicious activities. Teaches home security techniques. Encourages neighbors to get to know each other and their routines.

4. Crime Watch Brings citizens and police together to address the needs and concerns of the entire community.

5. Crime Watch is NOT… A vigilante force. A program designed to put it’s participants at risk. A guarantee that crime will not occur in our community.

6. Crime Watch Advantages Promotes community growth, strength and unity. Generates concern among neighbors. Increases community awareness and involvement. Increase overall communication.

7. What do we do now? Exchange basic information with trusted neighbors. Report all suspicious activities to the Sheriff’s Office: 301-475-8008 911 emergency Provide accurate descriptions of suspicious persons and vehicles.

8. What to do Keep neighbors informed of houses that will be unoccupied for extended periods of time. Look after neighbor’s houses when they are away. Know how to contact them in case of an emergency. Make neighbors aware of crimes and suspicious activity that has occurred in the community.

9. Suspicious Activity What To Report Door to door solicitors asking strange or inappropriate questions. Strangers hanging around parks, bus stops and other places frequented by children. Persons hanging out in parks and around businesses after they are closed. Abandoned vehicles in unusual locations.

10. Suspicious Activity A non-resident going into a back or side yard of a residence. Persons carrying property in a suspicious manner. Someone forcing entry into a vehicle or residence. Persons looking into parked vehicles or hanging around parking lots at night.

11. When You Call What – do not exaggerate Where – be specific When Any Injuries Description of vehicles and persons. Direction of travel. Remain on the line and keep the operator updated.

12. Crimes in progress and life threatening emergencies take priority over other calls. Remember DO NOT confront any situation, wait for the police to arrive.

13. I.D. Valuables Mark Valuables with your drivers license number and state. Make a list of all valuables and keep in a safe place. Don’t forget to include serial numbers. Photograph or video tape valuables that can’t be marked. Include a list of credit card information and fraud reporting numbers with your property list.

14. Home Security Surveys Request a free security survey. An officer will respond to your house and give you tips on how to make your home more secure. To schedule a survey contact your Community Service Officer or call 301-475-8008.