Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Lee explains about Crime Watch program

A meeting to get a Neighborhood Crime Watch program started drew few people, Monday, Oct. 22.

Floyd Harlow, owner of the Broadway Restaurant, had contacted Hope Police Officer Linda Lee, getting her to present the program.

Harlow said there was a Crime Watch program in Nevada County at one time, but it fell apart. "We need to get it back together again," he said.

"I usually do these programs for a particular neighborhood," Lee said, "and not an entire community."

Such programs, she said, normally get started because people in a neighborhood decide they want it, and the programs are usually done in someone's home.

However, she added, having it in a public place, like the Nevada County Courthouse, is a good idea, as many people don't want others in their homes. Inviting others in, she said, allows them to see what those living in the house have and get the "lay of the land" so to speak.

One of the problems in getting these programs started, she said, is people don't follow through once things get started, mainly because they don't want to get involved unless the problem is in their neighborhood.

When the problem is solved, she said, the program often falls apart as people become apathetic.

Those serious about having a crime watch neighborhood, she continued, need to have regular meetings. Lee recommended the meetings be held at least once a month.

Having neighborhood events, such as pot luck dinners and cookouts, is a good idea, she said, as it gives those living in the area the chance to get to know one another on a social level.

Crime watch neighborhoods are important because people are constantly moving in and out of areas, she added.

When neighbors know one another, they also know who does and doesn't belong in the area, Lee said. This way, they can keep an eye out for one another.

"People used to hate nosy neighbors," she said, "but now are glad to have one."

One idea to help keep up with what's going on in neighborhoods, she said, is a telephone chain. This is where one person calls two neighbors, they call two each and so on.

Normally, in crime watch neighborhoods, one person is nominated to be the block captain. Their job is to keep up with what's going on in the neighborhood and let others know.

Lee said the majority of burglaries occur during the day when most people are working.

Because of this, it's important, she added, to keep hedges and bushed trimmed so houses are visible from the street.

She gave tips on how to protect a home at night also, saying burglars hate noise and light, so residents should make sure their property is well lighted. Motion lights are preferred as they are activated when something gets in range of the sensors.

Another idea is to have lights, televisions and radios inside the house on timers when people are away. This gives the impression someone is home and can prevent a burglary.

She showed two short videos which gave tips on how to help avoid being a crime victim.

Most important, she said, is to use common sense and stay alert.

This includes not opening doors to strangers, even if they claim to be making a delivery. Get identification first and look for their delivery vehicle. If one isn't seen, or they can't provide ID, call the police.

When shopping park in well lighted areas and always lock the vehicle doors, even if it's just for a few minutes.

In addition, don't shop alone, as individuals are easier prey for criminals than groups.

If anyone in Prescott or Nevada County is interested in getting a crime watch program going, Lee offered to help them get signs and other paraphernalia used.