The prevention of crime, particularly crime in residential neighborhoods, is a responsibility that must be shared equally by law enforcement and private citizens. The impact on crime prevention by law enforcement alone is minimal when compared with the power of private citizens working with law enforcement and each other.

Town Watch is based on this concept of cooperation, and nationwide statistics prove that it works. When citizens take positive steps to secure their own property and neighbors learn how to report suspicious activity around their homes, burglary and related offenses decrease dramatically. To really reduce crime there has to be a strategic, team effort between the Sheriff's Department and our community.

Make our community, your home and your neighbors a safer and more secure place to live. Report suspicious people or activities to the Sheriff's Department.

If you have questions about Town Watch, contact the Security Committee Chair on the POC page.

Send in your anonymous crime solver tip by texting "TIP239" plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). You will receive an anonymous alias identifier for further communications, if necessary. To see a tutorial and learn more about this program go to www.smscrimetips.com

(301) 475-8008 Sheriff's Department
(301) 475-8016 Fire Department
(301) 475-8016 Emergency Medical Services
(301) 475-8018 Animal Warden
(301) 475-3333 Crime Solvers Hotline
(301) 475-9118 Community Mediation Center

Click HERE to search the Maryland Sex Offender Registry.

Click HERE to view the St. Mary's County Sherrif's Department Wanted List.

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system and is always fatal once symptoms appear. The virus can be transmitted to people or animals through bites from infected animals or exposure to infected saliva through open wounds or mucous membranes. Individuals who are exposed to a rabid animal must promptly receive rabies vaccines and anti-rabies serum to prevent the disease.

The following precautions are recommended:

1) Avoid contact with wild animals because they could be infected with rabies. Although special care should be taken to stay away from animals that seem to be ill or acting strangely, some animals that look healthy could be infectious. Anyone who is bitten or scratched should immediately clean the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention.

2) For the protection of domestic animals and humans it is recommended that your pets receive a yearly rabies vaccination and wear a County license tag. Rabies vaccinations are available at all veterinary offices.

3) Keep pets away from wildlife, especially at night when wildlife is most active.

4) Do not feed any wildlife.

5) Do not leave pet food outside. This will attract wildlife to your yard.

6) Report any sick, or injured animals to the Animal Warden at (301) 475-8018 .