When did you last speak to your neighbour? When most people are asked this question they will give a variety of replies ranging from earlier today or a couple of days ago to a year ago or never. In the majority of cases the answer would most probably be more than a month ago.
I recently attended the launch of the first neighbourhood watch meeting for my locality. Not only was it good to meet some of my immediate neighbours for the first time but also to find out how easy it is to reduce your chances of experiencing a burglary. Just simple steps such as marking your belongings with your postcode, fitting good window locks and improving outdoor lighting can all help to make your property more secure. Your local police or Neighbourhood Watch Office can offer further advice on this or take a look at the following sites www.crimereduction.gov.uk or www.securebydesign.com
Very much in line with the principles of The Middlesex Directory, the idea behind Neighbourhood Watch is to build stronger communities by making people become more observant to what is happening around their local area and if any crime is committed or anyone is seen acting in an unusual manner to report it to the local police. Neighbourhood Watch can also provide a platform to build a friendly, more approachable community. Certainly if you know the people who live around you on a more personal level you may be more concerned about their property or car being safe and take action if any problems occur. Some groups organise their own barbecues or social events. Most groups have their own newsletter where residents concerns can be recorded and the community can become more aware of any potential problems.
Whilst no-one is suggesting that people become the irritating nosey neighbour with binoculars at the window twitching the net curtains, the idea is just to be slightly more aware of your surroundings that you might normally be and also to look out for more vulnerable neighbours such as the elderly or disabled is a good one.
Criminals depend upon opportunity to commit crime and if we can reduce this then we are some may to helping to solve the problem. Taking action takes effort but, as with most things in life, the more you put in the more you get out.
Why not join your local Neighbourhood Watch group. You can find details of local groups on the website http://www.neighbourhoodwatch.uk.com/ If there isn’t one for your area you may like to consider setting one up. The knock-on benefits will be a more pleasant environment for you, your family and community.