The Neighborhood Watch program serves as a conduit between the community and the police. The objective is to continue to promote safety and security in residential and business neighborhoods. The basic crime prevention goals are to protect self, be aware of your surroundings, any suspicious people or activities, to be prepared and to know how to respond to home emergencies. NHW members learn how to discourage, deter and prevent crimes such as burglary, auto theft, car break-ins, and personal crimes, which often occur in or near homes.

The Palo Alto Police Department has provided Neighborhood Watch training since 1981. We will provide special training on home security and taking charge of your own safety. We will provide safety presentations and talk about crime trends. You can call 650-329-2632 to schedule a meeting.

How it Works

Meet with your neighbors. It is one of the most effective and least costly ways to prevent crime and reduce fear. Neighborhood Watch fights the isolation that crime both creates and feeds upon. It forges bonds among area residents, helps reduce burglaries and robberies and improves relations between police and the community they serve.

You can learn from your neighbors if there is an established association or NHW group. Attend meetings and social events. They are your best source of information. If you do not have one in your neighborhood, it's easy to start one. Talk to other neighbors and see it there is a common interest to join together to fight crime and enhance the safety and quality of your neighborhood. For ideas, see our "NH Block Party Guide."

Call to set up a Neighborhood Watch group in your area or we can direct you to the neighborhood association nearest you. You can also check the web site:

www.paloaltoonline.com for local groups, NH Associations and a map.

www.cityofpaloalto.org for additional information.

Download the Neighborhood Watch Brochure