Neighbourhood Watch is a group of concerned neighbours who combine together
with the aim of reducing crime and the fear of crime in their immediate areas.OWL (Online Watch Link) is a new, innovative and very secure computer-based
system designed and developed by Hertfordshire Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) and
Hertfordshire Constabulary in partnership. It is already in use in parts of
Hertfordshire and is in the process of being introduced in East Herts. It will
replace the Ringmaster system and by March 2008 will be the only means of
communicating with NHW. Current registered users of Ringmaster will have their
contact details transferred to OWL.
OWL has the capability to distribute crime alert messages rapidly through a
variety of media including e mail, voice mail and mobile SMS messages.
Registered members can select their preferred method of communication and times
at which they would prefer not to be contacted, either permanently (eg
overnight) or temporarily (eg when on holiday).
OWL also allows members to record incidents, observations and comments in a
diary-like fashion. NHW Co-ordinators can subsequently view and search such
incidents to gain insight into local concerns or suspicious activity. Registered
NHW members can amend their schemes and personal details and Watch Co-ordinators
can send messages throughout their watch.
For residents without computer access or who no not wish to be contacted by
computer, NHW will still be available and function as normal, with crime alerts
being distributed to registered subscribers by automated voice mail or mobile
SMS messages.
If you wish to be registered with OWL, please print, complete and return the
registration form as shown or use the online form below:
When OWL is introduced throughout East Hertfordshire, registered users
will be given password access to the following secure web site:
http://www.owl.co.uk/index.htm
All information provided will be stored securely on OWL and is subject to
the Data Protection Act. All information sent to or from your computer will be
securely encrypted. Information stored on OWL can be viewed by District, Ward,
Area or Watch Co-ordinators appropriate to their level of access and will be
used solely by Hertfordshire Neighbourhood Watch.
David Kitching
East Herts District Deputy Community Co-ordinator and Hunsdon Ward
Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator
