A crime-busting initiative that has traditionally relied on nothing more than the eyes and ears of ordinary civilians is to go high-tech.The new scheme will notify Neighbourhood Watch residents of public safety alerts via voice call and text message.Announcing the launch of Neighbourhood Watch 2.0 yesterday, Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley said the public/private initiative “will turn neighbourhoods into a network of awareness”.“As outlined in the Speech from the Throne, the vibrant Neighbourhood Watch programme must be supported as Bermuda’s residents bravely commit to taking back their communities,” Mr Dunkley told the House of Assembly.“The initiative will provide neighbourhoods with a real-time communication system connecting everyone who wishes to join. With one phone call or text message, a resident will have the ability to notify all of their neighbours regarding crime or suspicious activity.“The Government will further enhance the system’s effectiveness by providing residents with information on what is happening within their neighbourhoods.”The Minister applauded residents who has set up Neighbourhood Watch schemes, saying it was “one of the most effective ways to reduce crime and build better relationships between residents”.“Keeping Bermuda safe is not solely the responsibility of the police,” Mr Dunkley said.“Each member of the community can play a vital role by getting involved in their neighbourhood.“I salute each member of the community, each Neighbourhood Watch group and each Community Action Group who have stepped up to the plate and welcome more to join and form throughout the Island.”