Concerned residents are the best asset any police department has in fighting crime. The Neighborhood Watch program was developed to train and educate residents in ways to be involved, stay informed and work together with their neighbors to address mutual concerns and find solutions. A watch program is neighbors helping neighbors.

Who can participate?

Everyone! This is a free program offered for young, old, renter and home owner.

How do I set up a meeting?

• Contact the Marion Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Coordinator at 618-993-2124
• Decide what will be your "Block Watch" area. This averages about 30 homes, but every neighborhood is evaluated on an individual basis.
• Pick a meeting date. The Neighborhood Watch meetings are scheduled Monday through Thursday evenings and usually start at 7 p.m.
• Select a location for meeting. The meetings are usually held in homes, but can be held in local churches, libraries or schools.
• Invite your neighbors. The Police Department has invitations for your use.

What is discussed at the meeting?

Representatives from the Police Department will conduct the meeting. This will be the Neighborhood Watch Coordinator and a street officer. The topics covered will be:

• What, how and when to report activities to the Police Department.
• Use of 911.
• Security measures for homes, such as locks, lights and alarms.
• Operation Identification.
• Current crime trends in your area and community-wide. Questions and concerns of residents.

How do I qualify for the Neighborhood Watch signs?

In order to be considered an "active" Neighborhood Watch group, the following guidelines must be met.

• At least 50 percent of your neighborhood needs to participate in the Neighborhood Watch program. This is usually met at the original meeting, but if it isn't, neighbors can be contacted afterwards to get their commitment to the program. We are averaging 95 percent participation.
• Block Captain/s will be recruited at the initial meeting. They will act as liaisons between the neighborhood and the Police Department.
• An annual meeting is required with representatives from the Police Department. This is essential to maintain the commitment to the program, to keep the communication channels open within the neighborhood and have a vehicle in place to address concerns as they arise.

Once these requirements are met, the neighborhood watch signs will be installed and will remain as long as the neighborhood stays active in the program.

The Neighborhood Watch program is working and making a difference in the crime rate in Marion Illinois. By working together we can make sure our community stays a safe place to work and live.