Neighborhood Watch

Neighborhood Watch is a nation-wide program supported by local police departments and directed to preventing crimes against property, such as burglary. Entire communities are organized and trained to be alert to potential criminal activities in their neighborhoods. These individuals are on the lookout for suspicious activities or persons and alert police before a crime is committed.

Involving hundreds of residential communities and thousands of citizen volunteers, the Fairfax County Neighborhood Watch program has become one of the largest and most successful in the country.

The Fairfax County Police Department actively encourages citizens to organize Neighborhood Watch groups in their communities. Neighborhood Watch combines home security inspections, property identification, citizen awareness, and organized patrolling or observation into a comprehensive program designed to promote safety and security in residential areas.

On foot or in cars, armed with only watchful eyes and alert ears, participants notify police of situations which require police presence. The program is based on the premise that citizen cooperation enhances and complements the abilities of the police department.

Crime Prevention Officers assigned to the Mason District Station are responsible for maintaining a liaison with Neighborhood Watch groups and coordinating their activities. They also conduct free home security surveys.

At this time only a few of the eleven sections of Lake Barcroft have an active Neighborhood Watch program. Your help and commitment to the program is needed and will ensure its continuing effectiveness. Those of you interested in knowing more about the on-going program in your section and how you can contribute, should contact Kim Smith.