What is Neighborhood Watch?

Neighborhood Watch is a community-based crime prevention program that encourages residents to work together with law enforcement to reduce crime and improve neighborhood safety. It is built on the idea that neighbors looking out for each other can be a powerful tool against criminal activity.

How to start a Neighborhood Watch Program: 5 easy steps

Creating a safer neighborhood starts with you. Follow these five simple steps to launch a successful Neighborhood Watch program in Edinburg:

• Recruit and organize as many neighbors as possible.
• Contact the Edinburg police department Community Policing Division at 956-289-7700.
• Discuss your communities concerns and develop a plan of action. Designate a block captain or several block captains for each subdivision.
• Create a communication plan. How will you address your concerns to your block captain? Facebook, WhatsApp, SMS text, email?
• Schedule and hold your meetings. Edinburg Police dept. encourages our neighborhoods to hold at least 3 meetings annually. Edinburg PD would be present for each meeting. After your 3rd meeting, we will post ‘watch signs’ around your neighborhood.

Your block captain will have first line communication 24/7 with an officer from the Edinburg Police department. With a successful Neighborhood Watch group, you will notice reduction in crime, improved communications and a stronger, united community. Together, we can make a safer neighborhood for all to enjoy!

For more information, please refer to the links below: 

• Neighborhood Watch Application