EYES AND EARS OF THE COMMUNITY

CGH Neighbourhood Watch exists to:

  • Increase community awareness
  • Share verified safety information
  • Encourage responsible reporting to SAPS
  • Support visible, voluntary patrols
  • Promote practical crime‑prevention habits

We do not encourage confrontation, vigilantism, or unsafe behaviour. Observation, communication, and personal safety always come first.

NEIGHBOURHOOD PATROLLING

Neighbourhood patrolling helps increase visibility and reduce opportunities for crime when done responsibly and safely.

Patrols are:

  • Voluntary
  • Conducted in pairs or groups where possible
  • Focused on observation and visibility
  • Logged for accountability and trend awareness

Patrolling is not about confronting suspects. Patrollers observe, record, and report only.

Patrolling Guidelines

When on patrol, members are expected to:

  • Remember that CGH Neighbourhood Watch is not a security company or the police
  • Use the buddy system where possible
  • Remain calm, alert, and non‑confrontational
  • Report suspicious behaviour or dangerous conditions through the correct channels
  • Record patrol details accurately

Patrollers may request support through designated channels if needed.

CCTV CAMERA PROJECT

Camera initiatives can support community awareness and crime prevention when used responsibly.

CGH Neighbourhood Watch follows a considered approach to camera initiatives, focusing on:

  • Proper planning and placement
  • Legal and ethical use
  • Community awareness rather than surveillance

Cameras are a supporting tool only. They do not replace policing, vigilance, or community participation.

All current and future camera initiatives rely on voluntary community support and are managed with transparency and oversight.

BIN DAY AWARENESS

Reducing Crime Opportunities on Refuse Collection Days

Refuse collection days can unintentionally create opportunities for crime if refuse is placed outside too early.

Residents are encouraged to:

  • Put refuse bags out no earlier than 07:00 on collection day
  • Avoid placing bags out the night before
  • Bring bins back in promptly after collection

Reducing unnecessary activity helps protect the entire neighbourhood.

Responsible Giving

Residents are encouraged to avoid giving cash or goods directly to people begging in the street. While well‑intentioned, this can unintentionally increase safety risks.

Those wishing to help are encouraged to support established organisations that provide structured assistance.