Safety Group

Brierwood Community Watch – “The Way to a crime-free and secure neighborhood.”

Brierwood Neighborhood Watch

The Brierwood Community Neighborhood Watch Patrol works with members of the Brierwood community, the Shallotte Police Department and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office.

The Safety Group was formed a number of years ago by contacting local enforcement departments that assisted Brierwood by providing information, materials and technical advice in getting started.

After initial meetings with residents and law enforcement officers, the Safety Group under the auspices of the Brierwood Association began its community watch program – Neighbors looking out for each other.

Volunteer as a 'Watch Member'

The Safety Group always accepts new volunteers for Watch members. The more Watch members means more security and less time involved for each volunteer.

Responsibilities as a 'Watch Member'

The responsibility concept of a neighborhood watch member is simple; be alert, get to know your neighbors, report suspicious activities and crime to the Shallotte police department or Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office.

The most critical duty of a Watch Member is to REPORT suspicious activity, not to ENGAGE with one in the act of a crime. To report any suspicious activity:

Call 9-1-1
Give your name and address
Explain what happened
Briefly describe, if possible, the suspect’s sex, race, age, height, hair color, clothing and any distinctive feature such as a beard, mustache, clothing, etc.
Describe any vehicle involved if possible; color, make, model, year, license plate and any special features, stickers, vehicle areas of damage, etc.

Activities to look out for as a Watch Member

Eyes, ears and knowing your neighbors helps in alerting a Watch Member of unusual and suspicious activity.

Someone screaming or shouting for help;
Someone looking in vehicles or residential windows;
Property being taken out of homes when no one is home;
Vehicles moving slowly with no apparent destination or without lights;
Vehicles parked in unusual spots;
Anyone being forced into a vehicle;
A stranger sitting in a car or stopping to talk to a child;
Communicating with neighbors about any concerns or problems;
Keep each other informed about vacations, trips, etc., to keep an extra lookout while away.

Again, for effective yet safe Watch Member activity, REPORT suspicious activity, not ENGAGE with suspicious activity.

Watch Members report suspicious activity, let local law enforcement engage in the activity.