Many of us only talk to our neighbors when we are getting our mail, or the occasional wave hello over the fence. But when neighbors know each other, and watch out for each other’s homes and families, incidents of residential burglary can be greatly reduced.
Whether you live in a standalone house or an apartment, the Neighborhood Block Watch program helps fight crime and build community. Block watches organize and extend what you are probably already doing on an informal basis. The key is getting to know your neighbors. Block watches are encouraged to get together at least once a year.
The Burien Police Department will provide information to block watch members on home security and will provide a free home security survey using methods from Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED). You can also participate in National Night Out, an annual event that brings together community members, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations, and local officials on the first Tuesday in August.
Start A Block Watch Group
- Ask your neighbors if they would like to start a block watch.
- If yes, plan an initial meeting for everyone to learn about crime prevention techniques. Contact the Burien Police Department at michiko.wilson@kingcounty.gov or (206) 263-2573 to schedule your block watch meeting. The Community Service Officer will come to your community to meet you.
