Neighborhood Watch - How does it work?
Two residents drive together through the neighborhood watching for suspicious activities.  These residents can be two family members, two neighbors, or the Coordinator can pair two residents to patrol together. Patrollers are supplied with magnetic "neighborhood watch" signs for their cars, a flashlight, a cell phone and a log/instruction loose leaf notebook. If suspicious activities are observed, the patrollers notify the police via cell phone.  If you would like to go on patrol with someone who can show you the procedure, make arrangements with the coordinator. For more specific information call the Watch Coordinator  Jeff Carter,  his phone number is on page 13 of your Community Directory.

Make your home less of a target.  Leave your home looking and sounding occupied. Timers for lights and radios are relatively inexpensive.  Use outside lighting with motion detectors.  Bar sliding doors and windows.  Keep your neighbors informed of your absences and your daily routines.  When away from your home, ask a neighbor to watch it and check it carefully for you. 

Watch your neighbors' homes.  Know your neighbors’ routines and what to expect at your neighbor's house (such as a delivery truck) and what may be suspicious activity. Record license plate numbers of unexpected service or moving vehicles.  Be alert for strangers in your neighborhood.  Notify the police immediately of any suspicious people, trucks, cars or noises in the neighborhood.  So many burglaries could be stopped or prevented if only more people would report suspicious happenings.  Do not worry about being a nuisance.  The Fairfax County Police Department welcomes your call and the opportunity to prevent a crime.  To report vandalism, or other non-emergencies, notify the police using the non-emergency number 703-691-2131. 

Do your part to safeguard your home, watch out for neighbors close  to your home and sign up to patrol on not more than two dates during the year. It can be a great way to get to know your neigthbors, and your neighborhood. Email WSV Neighborhood Watch by clicking here.