How to Prevent Crime in Your Neighborhood
The economic value and social health of a neighborhood often depends on its safety. Neighborhood crime results in fear and distrust among neighbors, while safe neighborhoods foster a desirable quality of life among the community. When neighborhood crime is not prevented, it contributes to the neglect and disintegration of the community. Knowing how to prevent neighborhood crime is important to the social and economic prosperity of the community.
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Instructions
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Know your neighbors and communicate with them on a regular basis. Become acquainted with your new neighbors if you just moved into a new neighborhood. Introduce yourself and familiarize yourself with each other's family members, cars and work and vacation schedules so you can become more aware of any suspicious behavior.
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Set up a neighborhood watch program in collaboration with your local police department. Make sure your streets and homes are well lit to deter any potential criminals. Pay attention to any suspicious behavior in the neighborhood or any yelling or screaming, and don't be afraid to report it to other neighbors or to your local law enforcement officers.
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Help clean up your neighborhood. Pick up any litter and report any abandoned vehicles, graffiti or run-down vehicles that could indicate a lack of care for the neighborhood. Contact the city public works department to seek help with the cleanup.
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Keep your house, garage and vehicles secure at all times. Make sure that your doors and windows are locked when you are away. Have a neighbor gather your mail and newspapers if you are away for an extended period. Invest in a good security system, if possible.
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Report a crime or any suspicious activities to the police immediately. Call 911 immediately if you witness a crime in action.
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Tips & Warnings
Educate yourself and your neighbors about hotlines, crisis centers and other help available to victims of crime.
Educate yourself and others on local firearm laws.
References
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