It starts simply...just by opening the door. Gather friends and neighbors together now and begin an ongoing dialogue about the problems, resources, and solutions for your community.

Neighborhood Watch, Block Watch, Crime Watch - whatever the name, it is one of the most effective and least costly way of preventing crime and reducing fear. Neighborhood Watch fights the isolation that crime both creates and feeds upon. Neighborhood Watch creates a bond among the residents, helps to reduce burglaries and robberies, and improves relations between the police and the communities they serve.

Any community resident, young or old, married or single, renter or homeowner can join. Watch groups are extra eyes for reporting crime and helping neighbors.

Any group representing individual households in the same geographic area may be considered for a Neighborhood Watch Group. Ideally, members of this group should be in a position to observe each other's property or entrances to some extent.

The purpose of specifying group areas is for the convenience and definition of members within the group. It is easier for a small group to organize meetings, to maintain communications with each other, and to coordinate those activities which will make their neighborhood a safer and more enjoyable place to live. When neighbors know each other personally they are more aware of each other's routines, schedules, and habits. They notice things which are out of the ordinary, unusual events, such as strange automobiles and people in the neighborhood. This Neighborhood Acquaintance, or familiarity is an important factor in the neighbor's willingness to become involved in reporting a crime if they believe or suspect that one is taking place.

First. Talk to the people you know in the neighborhood and see if they would be willing to attend a meeting to discuss neighborhood problems. Also get the names of other neighborhood residents that they know who may share your concerns.

Fourth Call Mary L. Baker. Mary is a retired City of Dayton Police Officer who worked in Crime Prevention. Mary is also a Triangle Federation resident and neighbor. Call her for a presentation as to how to proceed.