by Christine McDonald
Let’s Be Aware.
I recently was asked, ‘are we inviting criminals into our space?’
‘Of course not!’ I replied.
Do you frequently leave a briefcase or laptop sitting in your car as you run into your house or a store? Do you leave your purse on the front seat of your car? Sometimes you may leave your car doors unlocked, your garage door open, or posting to Facebook or Twitter that you are out of town on #VACATION.
Hmmm….
I’ve done it. We’ve all done it. We’re in rush. Our minds are multi-tasking and our lists grow longer. Sometimes we forget, but thankfully we have our neighbors. Yes, your neighbors can be your protectors when you are moving quickly through life and forget to grab your iPhone from the front seat of the car.
Do you know your neighbors?
I spoke with Lieutenant Charles Warner of the Franklin Police Department. He said, “A nosey neighbor is one of your best defenses against theft and burglary. Neighborhood Watch groups take that a step further and allow neighbors to meet and socialize. You can begin to get to know each other through a program we can help create.
“A Neighborhood Watch enables neighbors to get together and share information to protect you and your family. Then they share information with us. We are able to do pretty great things together!”
Stay Connected
Many people assume a Neighborhood Watch group is going to take a lot of time. When done correctly, a Neighborhood Watch group can be easily managed without a lot of time. If you use these tips, everything will fall into place.
1. You first need to appoint a leader or a director.
2. Create a network sharing system and social media ties.
3. Make neighborhood meetings fun so neighbors will get to know each other.
4. Contact the Police Department for an appointee to attend the meetings and train the citizens of your neighborhood properly.
4. Host quarterly meetings and leverage email to communicate or even create a newsletter.
Let’s Start Talking!
If you are thinking of joining a Neighborhood Watch or making your Neighborhood Watch stronger you can do it.
Officer Ryan Shaman is an incredible ambassador for Franklin. Officer Shaman helps connect communities with the police department. He can be reached at [email protected] or 615-794-2513.
So let’s be aware. Let’s stay connected, observant, and care about each other. Get to know your local Police officials. They are willing to help.
Stay tuned for advice from Troy Huffines, Chief of Police in Nolensville.
Franklin, TN Neighborhood Watch Contact:
Officer Ryan Schuman Phone: 615-794-2513 [email protected]
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