Neighborhood Watch is a program whereby the citizen can learn to better protect their family, property, and themselves. The Neighborhood Watch concept is to provide citizens with knowledge and information so that they can become more educated in preventing crime. We also provide a resource for you to ask police advice on how to deal with problems that you are experiencing.

How does the Program operate?

The Neighborhood Watch Group meets once per month and discusses any problems that have arisen in the neighborhood since the last meeting. A strategy will then be agreed upon as to how the police and the residents can solve the problems. We realize that the neighbors often hold the answer on how to best deal with an issue in their neighborhood, since they usually know the history.

The Officer will then recap issues form the preceding month. The officer will give an update on the issue and then work with the members on how to go forward. Once this is completed, the officer will present a short presentation a specific topic related to crime prevention.

These topics are described in the "Monthly Topics" section. The topic to be discussed will be chosen by the group based on their interest. The meeting will then close. At no time will the officer request that you go "on patrol for crime". This group is designed for information sharing purposes. If an issue discussed at the meeting requires a police presence, the Bristol Police Department will provide those officers.

What are the benefits?

- You will be aware of the types of crimes that are occurring in your area.
- Learn crime prevention techniques for personal safety and property.
- You and your family will be less likely to become a victim of crime.
- New friendships with neighbors that you don't know.
- You will be providing a service to the neighborhood.
- Your neighborhood can become a safer place for you and your family.

What are the Monthly Topics?