Feb. 2: Citizens on Patrol Meeting at Perry Hall Library

County Councilman plans to host an about the impact of groups in neighborhoods, at 7 p.m. on Feb. 2 at the .

The Fifth District Community Advisory Council will include representatives of the Towson Area COP program and of the . They plan to present information on how neighborhood watch groups can improve public safety, Marks announced.

"I had no idea when planning this presentation that Perry Hall would soon experience a series of burglaries and other crimes," Marks stated in a .

"Perry Hall is still one of the safest communities in eastern Baltimore County. Still, I am extremely concerned about recent events and urge the public to remain vigilant and observant," he stated.

Some neighborhoods in the South Perry Hall area, including and , already have COP groups. In August 2011, both participated in activities to build awareness about the groups, build unity and promote better interaction with police and firefighters.

In advance of National Night Out, PHIA president encouraged even those residents without COP groups to walk their streets and better get to know their neighbors.

Would you join a Citizens on Patrol group if it were formed in your neighborhood? Tell us in the comments.