When I lived alone in a condo complex, the HOA would hold regular neighborhood watch meetings. About 3-4 a year. I learned that community members in a neighborhood will naturally be hyper-vigilant when a crime has been recently committed. But...as times passes...
A couple months go by. Then 6 months pass. Nothing happens. Folks in the neighborhood almost forget about what happened and seldom discuss past unpleasant events. Then, when everyone becomes a little less vigilant, criminals strike again.
It certainly doesn't have to be this way. You can help keep neighbors vigilant by holding regular neighborhood watch meetings. This isn't about letting fear overtake your life; it's about keeping the crooks out of the place you call home.
At our last neighborhood watch meeting, we shared tips on what to watch for - like suspicious guys on bicycles carring a backpack. We learned about a neighbor's experience being burglarized at her previous home. We got to know each other a little better.
Oh, and have some fun. Make it a potluck.
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