Build a Safer San Antonio, Block by Block

Week 1: Planning & Research

Assess Your Neighborhood

• [ ] Crime statistics - Check SAPD data for your area

• [ ] Recent incidents - Talk to neighbors about concerns

• [ ] Physical layout - Map entry/exit points, problem areas

• [ ] Demographics - Understand who lives in your area

• [ ] Existing resources - HOA, community groups, etc.

Gauge Interest

• [ ] Door-to-door introductions - Meet 10-15 neighbors

• [ ] Informal survey - "Would you be interested in neighborhood watch?"

• [ ] Identify champions - Find 3-5 committed neighbors

• [ ] Note concerns - What specific issues worry people?

• [ ] Contact info - Collect phone numbers and emails

Contact SAPD

San Antonio Police Department Community Services:

• Phone: (210) 207-7273

• Ask for: Community Policing Officer for your district

• Request: Neighborhood watch coordinator visit

What SAPD Provides:

• Crime statistics for your specific area

• Guidance on effective watch programs

• Training materials and presentations

• Direct contact for reporting suspicious activity

• Coordination with patrol officers

Week 2: Organization

Schedule First Meeting

Meeting Basics:

• Location: Community center, school, or volunteer's home

• Time: Evening or weekend when most can attend

• Duration: 1-2 hours maximum

• SAPD Officer: Request officer attendance for credibility

Spread the Word

Communication Methods:

• [ ] Door hangers - Include meeting details

• [ ] Nextdoor posts - Reach broader neighborhood

• [ ] Email distribution - For those who provided emails

• [ ] Yard signs - "Neighborhood Meeting" with details

• [ ] Word of mouth - Personal invitations work best

Sample Door Hanger:

 NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETING 

WHEN: [Date] at [Time]

WHERE: [Address]

WHY: Make our neighborhood safer together

SAPD Officer will be present

Questions? Call [Your Name] at [Phone]

Week 3: First Meeting

Meeting Agenda (90 minutes)

Welcome & Introductions (15 minutes)

• Host welcomes everyone

• Round-robin introductions

• State meeting purpose clearly

SAPD Presentation (30 minutes)

• Crime statistics for your area

• How neighborhood watch works

• Legal do's and don'ts

• Reporting procedures

• Q&A with officer

Organize Structure (30 minutes)

• Select group leader/coordinator

• Choose meeting schedule (monthly recommended)

• Define patrol areas/zones

• Establish communication methods

• Set basic operating rules

Action Planning (15 minutes)

• Immediate priorities

• Sign-up for volunteer roles

• Next meeting date

• Contact information exchange

Key Roles to Fill

• Coordinator: Organizes meetings, communicates with SAPD

• Secretary: Takes notes, maintains contact lists

• Zone Leaders: Responsible for specific streets/areas

• Communications: Manages phone tree, social media

Signs Coordinator: Orders and maintains neighborhood watch signs

Week 4: Implementation

Set Up Communication Systems

Phone Tree:

• Create calling chain for emergencies

• Test monthly to ensure it works

• Update when people move/join

Group Text/Chat:

• WhatsApp, GroupMe, or similar

• Share suspicious activity immediately

• Keep conversations focused on safety

Email List:

• Monthly newsletters

• Meeting reminders

• Safety tips and updates

Nextdoor Integration:

• Create neighborhood watch group

• Share safety information

• Coordinate with nearby areas

Order Signs and Materials

Neighborhood Watch Signs:

• Entry points - "Neighborhood Watch Active"

• Throughout area - Smaller yard signs

• Quality matters - Weather-resistant, professional looking

Where to Order:

• SAPD may provide some signs

• Local sign shops (support SA businesses)

• Online safety supply companies

• Home Depot/Lowe's basic versions