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Welcome to Community Watch, your trusted partner in maintaining a safe and secure environment for the over 150,000 residents of The Villages. As an integral part of the District Government, we provide comprehensive support to every resident, District Department, and our law enforcement partners, with a focus on exceptional customer service.
Our Communications Center, the first accredited non-911 Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) call center in Florida, is available 24/7 to assist you. We conduct regular community patrols, employ advanced video monitoring systems, and staff strategic gate entry points to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. We take pride in serving The Villages community and are committed to upholding the high quality of life that residents expect.
Our dedicated staff serves as the watchful eye of the community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. While we are not a law enforcement agency, we work closely with our local law enforcement partners serving The Villages. As an “observe and report” agency, Community Watch plays a crucial role in deterring crime and assisting law enforcement in solving crimes when they occur.
As our community has grown, Community Watch has evolved to provide round-the-clock assistance in four key areas.
Patrol Drivers, under the direction of the Operations Manager, are responsible for patrolling over 110 assigned neighborhoods and responding to calls for assistance from residents and visitors 24/7/365. Patrol Drivers and walkers are also assigned to the three town squares, mainly during weekends, evenings, and early mornings, to assist local law enforcement, report incidents, and provide assistance to residents and visitors.
Dispatchers, under the direction of the Communications Supervisor, are responsible for coordinating and monitoring response efforts through radio communications, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch (CAD) in the Communications Center, which operates 24/7/365.
Gate Attendants, under the direction of the Field Operations Manager, acknowledge and greet all residents and guests as they enter the gate area. They serve as the first point of contact for anyone entering The Villages’ neighborhoods, making their role essential in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for residents and their guests.
Gate Operations, under the direction of the Communications Supervisor, play a crucial role in maintaining the smooth functioning and security of The Villages’ gate system by remotely monitoring and controlling access through the Live Observation Control Center.
Community Watch offers several specialized programs designed to give residents peace of mind and ensure safety, whether you’re at home or away. These services are tailored to meet the needs of those traveling, living alone, or requiring additional protection during emergencies. From house inspections to wellness checks, Community Watch is here to help you feel secure and stay informed.
Our House Check program offers a comprehensive exterior home inspection service for just $6.42 per week. Three times a week, our trained patrol drivers will conduct a thorough on-foot inspection of your home’s exterior, checking for any signs of damage or vulnerability.
You choose the call frequency and timing, and our Communications Center will contact you accordingly. If unable to reach you, we’ll follow a thorough escalation process, including home visits, hospital checks, and contacting key holders or friends. Your safety is our priority, and we’ll work closely with The Villages Public Safety Department and law enforcement when necessary.
Enroll in our complimentary Resident Out of Area Program. In the event of a natural disaster, Community Watch will notify you of any damage to your home, allowing emergency personnel to focus evacuation efforts on occupied residences.
To register for any of the above programs, please visit one of the District Customer Service Centers. For assistance in signing up for any of these programs, please contact district Customer Service Center at 352-753-4508. For additional information on any of these programs, you may also call Community Watch 24/7 at 352-753-0550.
While Community Watch is dedicated to ensuring your safety and well-being, it’s essential to remember that we are not a law enforcement agency. In the event of an emergency, always contact 9-1-1 immediately to receive prompt support from police, fire, or emergency medical transport.
Community Watch maintains strong partnerships and regular communication with local law enforcement to ensure The Villages remains a safe and secure community. By working together and staying vigilant, we can all contribute to the well-being of our residents.
Our Community Watch team works diligently to maintain a safe environment. However, residents can also play a crucial role in crime prevention. By staying vigilant, being aware of your surroundings, and taking simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the chances of becoming a victim of crime. Remember, criminals seek opportunities and aim to avoid detection.
Stay informed, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement. Together, we can create a safer environment for all residents of The Villages.
We are here to serve you and ensure that The Villages remains a safe and wonderful place to live, work, and play. Please contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more.