Page 90 - Illinois Association of Park Districts Benefits of Membership 2017 - 2018

security detail can help reduce crime and the potential for crime in these areas. It also helps expand communication between residents and law enforcement officials.
Creating a park watch program
A park watch program can address all types of crime. The park staff needs to encourage community residents to assume more responsibility for the activities taking place in their neighborhood. They must enlist the participation of park users and neighboring residents for the program to be effective. The users and neighbors are encouraged to report suspicious or illegal activity. A special telephone number can be provided to report criminal activity or maintenance problems that need attention. A nearby neighborhood watch group can be encouraged to adopt the park and volunteer to check periodically for litter and damage. Signs can be posted to explain that the park is protected by a park watch program.
Benefits of a park watch program
Creating a park watch program does the following:
 Decreases incidents of vandalism, crime, misuse of park properties and related costs.
 Creates awareness of activities in parks.
 Instills strong park, recreation and conservation values in children and encourages them to be
responsible park patrons.
 Develops a sense of ownership for neighborhood parks, recreation areas and facilities.
 Empowers citizens who use parks and park facilities, thereby making them feel comfortable, safe and
proud.
 Increases public awareness, cooperation and community among law enforcement, citizens, community
organizations, park districts, forest preserves, recreation and conservation agencies.

Conclusion
The Illinois Association of Park Districts supports park watch programs and believes that implementing a program effectively reduces or prevents crime and vandalism in park districts, forest preserves, conservation and recreation agencies.3
3 For more information on the Eagle Eye Neighborhood Watch Program, e-mail IAPD or call 217-523-4554.
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