The Block Watch program was specifically developed to help reduce residential break-ins and thefts from vehicles, and to provide a greater awareness to neighbours on how to be on the alert for suspicious activities in their communities.

The ultimate success of Block Watch depends largely on a commitment to cooperate between area residents and the police — and more importantly, between residents themselves.

Block Watch has been operating successfully in Surrey since 1986. It is administered in partnership by Surrey Police Service and the City of Surrey through our Community Programs Coordinators.

How does it work?

Your neighbours know who you are, what type of car you drive, and may be the first to notice a suspicious person at your door or window. A police officer patrolling your community may not recognize a stranger in your yard — but your neighbour will.

By simply getting to know the neighbours around you, you’ll be able to recognize someone or something that’s suspicious. When neighbours work together, they can combat crime in their area in the most effective way — before it starts. Block Watch encourages active participation in crime prevention.

As part of the program, you can learn:

• How to make your home less inviting as a target for thieves;
• How to participate in an engraving program to mark your valuables;
• How to recognize and report suspicious activity in your neighbourhood;
• How to increase your personal safety; and
• How to prevent auto crime.

What is required of volunteers?

• Each block area will require a Block Captain and, ideally, a Co-Captain to assist.
• Depending on the size of the complex or neighbourhood, several Captains or Co-Captains may need to be recruited.
• All Captains and Co-Captains must undergo a security check by the police in advance of attending the free training session and crime prevention workshop.
• The Block Watch Security Check and Application form can be obtained from one of our District Offices.
• Block Watch does not require a lot of time or major responsibility. It is easy to organize.

It is not necessary to be home all the time to be a Block Watch Captain or Co-Captain.