Business Watch Program and Training Seminars
In an effort to encourage business involvement in public safety issues, the Gilbert Police Department, in partnership with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, has implemented the "Business Watch Program." This program encourages Gilbert’s business community to come together to learn valuable information about protection techniques and problems that may be occurring within the business community.
To begin a business watch, a business owner or manager must initiate a phone call to the Gilbert Police Department Crime Prevention Unit (480) 635-7521 and schedule a date, time and location for an initial business workshop. Businesses located within strip malls or multiple tenancy facilities are required to gain the participation of at least 50% of the surrounding businesses or tenants in order to be an official business watch community. Because the backbone of the program is getting to know one another, what looks suspicious, and responsible reporting, it is necessary to maintain this level of participation.
At the initial business watch workshop, the Crime Prevention Unit will conduct a brief presentation which will be held at a location that is designated by you. This workshop will include discussion on a variety of crime prevention issues. Time will also be allotted for discussion, as well as the exchange of valuable communication information.
Upon successful completion of this workshop, businesses will receive a window decal indicating participation in the program, inclusion as a recipient of our bi-weekly e-Newsletter, and special training opportunities hosted by the Gilbert Police Department.
Finally, in order to maintain an active "Business Watch" status, it is required that your business attend one of several continued education training sessions offered by the Gilbert Police Department. These training opportunities will focus on a variety of public safety issues affecting business owners, manager and staff.
For additional information of this program, please contact a Crime Prevention Specialist at (480) 635-7521. An additional Business Resources Guide can also be found in the Police eServices webpage.