"Crime Watch" PSA:

We don't live in a 'high crime' area.
Ours is a relatively upscale waterfront neighborhood.
But there have been a few incidents.
Stuff stolen from docks and from unlocked cars in driveways.
There are thieves out there, and if you leave stuff lying around, they'll eventually find out about it and take it.
duh

1. Your local police force will be OVERJOYED if you contact them about starting a neighborhood "Crime Watch" organization.
You're making their job much easier.
The more you can deter crime in the first place, the more they can devote their resources to more serious stuff.

They'll send a representative to your group to show-and-tell you how to organize and what to do.

2. Posting signs (relatively inexpensive) showing that your neighborhood is a "Crime Watch" area is a huge deterrent in itself.
The bad guys would rather pass you by for easier hits.

3. Private security systems signs are also a deterrent.
Just the sign on your mailbox.
Even if you don't really have a service.
You can buy the fake signs online.
Thieves will bypass a house that states "This home protected by XYZ Security Services".

3. LOCK YOUR CAR.
Even if it's in a so-called 'secure' garage.
It only takes a second.

4. Lock your doors.
Even if you're home.
Many home invasions happen when homes are occupied with doors unlocked.

Sorry that it's come to this, but there it is.
:-(