Security & Neighbourhood Watch
--------------------------- At the Gate our Security operates 24/7/365 with a uniformed guard. We have a contract with a security company and our guards (and substitutes from time to time) are employees of this company. Our Bylaws provide some regulations for Security, and the Administrative Council has decided on a security policy and a gate protocol
-------------------- At the Perimeter Walls we have an electric fence which is monitored at the Gatehouse. Residents in casas that are adjacent to a perimeter wall must keep all vegetation at least 30cm (a foot) from the wiring to prevent false alarms
---------- Inside the walls we have street lighting at each end of every branch street and one or more along the street. They are designed to go on at dusk and off at dawn. Let the Administrator know if one isn't on at night.
Your neighbours have also organized a Neighbourhood Watch. This is a community-based volunteer program where neighbours keep an eye out for suspicious activity or noises in order to prevent crime. The more neighbours are involved, the safer we and our homes will be.
- What is your role?
When you see a stranger, go say hello. Be polite, friendly, and curious. Ask them which casa they belong to, are working at or visiting. If you are uncomfortable with their answer, contact a Street Captain for further investigation. If you hear the sounds of a possible break-in at night, contact the Gate Guard at 376 766 4006 immediately. If you are sure it is a robbery, contact the Chapala Police at 332 161 5903 for an English-speaking officer. - What is a Street Captain's role?
Your street captain will visit new Residents and give you information for emergencies, absences and visitors. Captains can answer some of your safety and security questions. They can direct you to experts on home "hardening". They want to be notified when you are absent for long periods and they will keep a closer eye on your casa. Captains do walkabouts frequently and make sure that any break-in attempts are reported promptly.
Your Street Captains are
- Rita Phillips [#6]
- Barbara Baker [#18]
- Jutta McAdam [#29]
- (street behind the clubhouse) Debra Sherry [#40] and Julian Malinsky [#41]
- Bill De Jardin [#48]
- Sandi Lindsay [#55]
----- At your casa walls we have been sharing information about hardening the entries to our homes. Check with your neighbours to see what they have done. To see some suggestions on casa-hardening click here