Volunteer Code of Conduct

1. Who we are

Briza Neighbourhood Watch is a volunteer community safety organisation working alongside SAPS and Helderberg Crime Watch. Volunteers are observers and reporters — never armed responders or law enforcement. We escalate; we do not confront.

2. Conduct while on patrol

• Always patrol with at least one other patroller — no solo patrols.
• Wear the issued high-visibility identifier at all times.
• No alcohol, illegal substances, or being under their influence while on duty or in the two hours preceding a shift.
• No firearms carried in your capacity as a Briza patroller. Legally licensed private carry remains your personal responsibility and is not endorsed, insured, or coordinated by Briza.
• Treat every resident, business owner, contractor, and stranger with courtesy — regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, or perceived income.
• Report; don't apprehend. Call the Helderberg Crime Watch control room number and, if imminent risk, SAPS 10111.

3. Handling resident data (POPIA)

• Resident names, addresses, phone numbers, and incident reports are confidential. Do not screenshot, forward, or discuss them outside the Briza operational channels.
• The interactive incident map contains details only authorised volunteers may see; the public map is intentionally anonymised.
• If you leave the volunteer patroller role, your access is revoked. Any downloaded data must be deleted at that point.

4. Communication

• Speak to press or social media only with prior approval from the Chairman or their delegate.
• Do not make public accusations about individuals — suspected criminal activity gets reported to SAPS through the proper channel, not posted online.

5. Consequences

Breaches are reviewed by the board. Depending on severity the outcome may be a written warning, temporary suspension of patroller status, or permanent removal. Serious breaches (violence, theft, harassment, POPIA data leaks) are reported to SAPS and to the Information Regulator as appropriate.