Neighborhood Watch is a multifaceted program directed toward reducing residential burglary and other crimes of opportunity. It attempts to create a feeling of community among neighborhood residents. It encourages the observation and reporting of suspicious and criminal activity to law enforcement.

The Neighborhood Watch program provides the opportunity for members of the neighborhood to spend time together and have an officer from the Crime Prevention Bureau explain proper home security measures and tips on altering the home environment to achieve greater security. The officer will also display different types of home security devices available to secure doors and windows. In addition, participants will be given information on local crime issues, how to identify and report suspicious activity and basic information related to police services and other topics of interest to the group. Subsequent meetings can be designed to address needs such as personal safety, vandalism, child safety concerns, quality of life issues, and how to reduce the risk of becoming victims. It is never too late to have a safe neighborhood. Let' s all work together in keeping Foster City a safe place to live..

Neighborhood Watch Groups
The Neighborhood Watch Program is offered to all residents of Foster City, including  apartment complexes, condominiums and other homeowner associations throughout the city. The Foster City Police Department encourages this innovative program which will help reduce residential burglary, vehicle theft and other crimes that may occur. Foster City currently has several Neighborhood Watch (NHW), groups throughout the city and it continues to grow.

How do I start a Neighborhood Watch program in my area? Walk through your neighborhood and talk with your neighbors. Tell them your concerns and discuss this program that will help bring you together to learn how to reduce your chance of becoming victims. If there is interest, contact the FCPD and the Crime Prevention Bureau will schedule a meeting for your area.

How much involvement is required to be a member? As much involvement as you wish. NHW is a citizen run program with the assistance of police personnel. Typically, a new area will have 2-3 meetings a year to get the program going. Once there is enough interest and neighbors are interacting, a block captain is chosen. He or she will be responsible for disseminating all literature and scheduling of meetings with the Neighborhood Watch Coordinator.

When and where are the meetings? Depending on the topic and the interaction within the group, meetings may last from 1-2 hours. They are usually held in the home of the block captain. If requested in advance, the Crime Prevention Bureau can host the meeting at an alternate location.

For additional information on how you can form your Neighborhood Watch group and for more crime prevention information please contact the Crime Prevention Bureau at the number listed below.