Neighborhood watch is undoubtedly one of the oldest and most well-known crime prevention programs in history. Although the modern-day concept of the program rose to prominence in the late 1960s, the roots of neighborhood watch can actually be traced back to the days of colonial settlements, when night watchmen patrolled the streets.

Neighborhood watch is no longer a guard duty. Today's neighborhood watch program incorporates activities that not only address crime prevention issues, but also restores pride and unity to a neighborhood.

City of Carlsbad's neighborhood watch program is a Police Department coordinated community action and problem-solving program. The program uses the idea of team spirit and good neighborly behavior to address problems that concern residents in the neighborhood.

A comprehensive guide is available to get a neighborhood watch program started.