Vehicle Preparation

We utilize both privately owned vehicles (POV)and the Stonewall Citizens' Patrol vehicle for our patrols.  There are some guidelines that we follow in making our vehicles ready for patrol.

For both POVs and the patrol vehicle:

1. Roll down the front windows so you can hear what is happening around you.  When the weather gets cold, turn on the heater and dress warmly.
2. Keep the doors LOCKED while you are in the vehicle.
3. Do not listen to the radio, use your cell phone (unless necessary for patrol), or have unnecessary conversation.  Remember why we patrol!
4. Bring your own map or GPS device (optional), cell phone, a flashlight, make sure the vehicle is fueled up.  Log sheets, pens, a clip board, and the Stonewall Citizens' Patrol cell phone will be provided.

If you use your personal vehicle:

1. Keep your car clean (you want recoverable fingerprints if a suspect touches your car).
2. If your car does not have cup holders, you may want to get some.

 Driver Responsibilities

1. Drive safely at all times and always observe traffic laws.
2. Wear your seatbelts.
3. Know your vehicle.
4. Recommended patrol speed is 15 - 20 mph.
5. Stay alert and do not let yourself become distracted.

Passenger Responsibilities

1. Observe - look for suspicous persons, crimes in progress, other vehicle and pedestrian traffic, etc.
2. Share what you see with your partner.
3. Write down important information on the log sheet.
4. If police assistance is required, call 911 and talk to the dispatcher.
5. Direct the driver when necessary.
6. Point out hazards to the driver (calmly).
7. KNOW YOUR LOCATION AT ALL TIMES!
8. Know your vicinity to major landmarks, major streets and freeways. Also, know what roads dead end (you'll learn in time).

Reporting Crimes in Progress

1. YOUR SAFETY FIRST!  Do NOT get out of your vehicle or try to intervene in any way.  We are not law enforcement officers.  Do not endanger yourself OR your partner!
2. The passenger should call 911 or 619-531-2000.
3. Do not try police talk, even if you think you know it.  Speak english to the dispatcher.
4. LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION!! - Know your location at all times.
5. Suspect(s) description.
6. Weapons visible? What type?
7. Suspects direction of travel. NORTH, EAST, SOUTH, WEST - NOT left or right.
8. Suspect mode of travel - on foot, bike, vehicle?
9. Vehicle description
   1. License plate number (say the State, then the number).
   2. Make, model, and color.
   3. Number of doors.
   4. Car, pickup, SUV, van?
   5. Custom additions to the vehicle, bumper stickers, etc.
   6. How many people in the car?
10. Stay on the phone.  Do not hang up until you are directed to do so by the dispatcher.
11. If you are disconnected, call back!
12. Type of crime - assault, shooting, etc.  Tell the dispatcher facts only - only what you SEE happening.  Do not draw conclusions.
13. Is medical assistance required?
14. Let the dispatcher know if you see the suspect drop or throw any items and where it was dropped or thrown - DO NOT PICK UP THE ITEMS.  These items may contain fingerprint, DNA, or other evidence.
15. Do not let yourself or your partner get in over your heads.  If you feel unsafe at anytime, get as much information as possible and move to a safe distance.
16. Return to the scene after the area is again calm and relay any information to the police.  Remember, the police are only interested in the FACTS of the incidents.
17. Ask the police if you can be of anymore assistance.  If they so no, then resume your patrol.  If they ask for assistance, obey all commands and requests of the officers.
18. BE A GREAT WITNESS!

If you become a victim

1. Have a plan
2. Give up your car or property - do not fight the suspect
3. Do not be confrontational
4. Do as the suspect demands
5. REMEMBER THAT BULLETS TRAVEL FASTER THAN YOU CAN DRIVE OR RUN!!
6. Write down your cell phone serial number
7. Remain calm
8. NEVER leave your partner
9. Immediately call the police ONCE IT IS SAFE to do so.

Debrief

1. Write a report of all incidents on your shift.
2. Note specific locations of street lamps that are out.  Give the address, if possible and what side of the street the lamp is on (N, E, S, W).
3. Learn from your mistakes.
4. Learn from your sucesses.
5. Share your mistakes and sucesses at the monthly meeting. It will improve the overall effectiveness of the Stonewall Citizens' Patrol.