Parameter | Protect My Block | Private Security | A Kid in a Car |
|---|---|---|---|
Hourly Rate | $72 | $65–$150 | $30–$40 |
Initiation Fees | None | $2,500–$10,000 | None |
Asking for minimum period | 6 months (1 month trial) | No | No |
Car Needed | No | No | Yes |
Insurance Coverage | Yes | Yes | No |
Trust & Credibility | High (15 years in Bergen County) | Mid (requires vetting & trust-building) | Low |
Time to Start | 1 week from payment | 1–2 months (negotiations, legal setup) | 1 month |
Expertise in threat assessment | Trained and experienced personnel | Same as ProtectMyBlock | None |
Support for Local Police | 5% of revenue donated to local police | No | No |
Outdoor Signage for Deterrence | Yes | No | No |
Technology Features
Feature | ProtectMyBlock | Private Security | A Kid in a Car |
|---|---|---|---|
Support "Crowdsourcing" payment* | Yes | No | No |
App for patrol routes and tracking | Yes | No | No |
Live updates on patrol location | Yes | No | No |
Camera recording for incident analysis | Yes | No | No |
Ability to contact Patrol in real time | Yes | No | No |
*Crowdsourcing = Allowing multiple families to contribute to a single account (a feature most companies or individuals don't support)
Highlighting the key differences between three common options for neighborhood patrol services:
This page, and tables below outline factors such as cost, credibility, response time, and available technology to help communities make an informed decision about enhancing safety in their area.
Comparing 3 options - ProtectMyBlock, getting your own Private Security Services, or hiring an Individual (a la "a Kid in a Car").
ProtectMyBlock
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Affordable hourly rates with no initiation fees.
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Advanced technology, such as apps for route tracking, live updates, and camera recording for incident analysis.
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High credibility and operational experience, including support for local law enforcement through revenue contributions.
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Quick startup times, with patrols beginning within a week of payment.
Private Security Services
Provide similar levels of expertise but come with higher costs, longer setup times, and fewer technology features.
Hiring an Individual (A “Kid in a Car”)
offers the lowest cost but lacks critical elements such as training, insurance, and advanced deterrent tools, potentially compromising overall safety and reliability.