There are some easy ways you can be part of School Watch, and it doesn’t involve being on a committee or going to meetings.

Most importantly, if you live near a school and see or hear suspicious behaviour, immediately telephone:

School Watch Security on 1800 177 777
or Police on 131 444

Telephone the Neighbourhood Watch State Office on 9356 0555 to get brochures and fridge magnets with these numbers sent to you.

When you telephone School Watch Security, Department security officers can quickly attend schools in the metropolitan area. Police will attend if called.

How your call helps

Your call could prevent break-ins, vandalism, graffiti or even arson. Ensuring your school is well cared for reflects on your community and contributes to the value of surrounding residential properties, so it’s worth it!

At the local level, school principals are encouraged to promote School Watch and, where possible, provide feedback through newsletters and the local news media in instances where residents’ calls have been valuable.

Each month, School Watch receives an average of 200 calls from the public. During holiday periods the number increases significantly. So your involvement really makes a difference.

What to look for?

• The most important times for you to be vigilant are during school holidays as schools are unattended and therefore more vulnerable than usual to crime.
• Keep in mind that schools are generally large physical areas, with multiple “blind spots”. If you hear unusual noises from within a school, such as glass breaking or banging noises, this might mean people are up to no good.
• Look for unusual vehicles parked at a school on weekends or during holidays.
• Watch for groups “hanging around” on school grounds. This should not occur and can be one of the starting points for crime to occur.

Who to contact

School Watch Security on 1800 177 777
or Police on 131 444

For promotional materials and to find out more about the School Watch program, telephone Neighbourhood Watch State Office on 9356 0555.