While we don't like talking about it - or even thinking about it - crime is on the rise in America and around the world. The number of thieves, robbers, car thieves, muggers and other criminals is growing in alarming proportions. Now you, as a resident, can help reduce the crime rate by partnering with your neighbors.
Steps
Step 1. Organize or participate in a community program where you and your neighbors meet to learn how to protect yourself, your families, your home and your property
By working together, you can rid your neighborhood and area of delinquents.
Step 2. Be in a group
There is more confidence in numbers and more power if you work in a team. You will learn about your neighbors and, by working with them, you can reduce crime, build a more united community, offer a means of communication between the police and citizens, implement techniques for continuous crime prevention in your neighborhood and awaken the community. interest of residents in community activities.
Step 3. Use the "Citizen Safety Projects"
They are programs designed to help you do this type of work. It is a common commitment between local police and citizens. These projects have taken hold across the country. Maybe one already exists in your community. These organizations do not require frequent meetings (more or less once a month). No one is required to take personal risks to prevent crime. The responsibility for catching the criminals is left to the competent authority - the police. This is not a group of "vigilantes": these groups bring citizens together to be informed about crime prevention by local authorities. You work with your neighbors to report suspicious activity in the neighborhood, to keep an eye on neighbors' homes when they are away, and to make people in the area aware of basic precautions for the protection of their own person and property. Criminals avoid neighborhoods where these groups are present.
Step 4. Learn what you need to know
Through partnering with local law enforcement, some of the things you will learn - and for free - are:
- What to do in an emergency.
- How to best identify a suspicious person.
- How to identify a vehicle used for a suspicious criminal activity.
- The signs to watch out for before entering a house or apartment where there may be thieves.
- What to do in case of injury.
- What to do with suspicious people hanging out on your street.
- How to identify stolen goods.
- How to recognize if a car theft is taking place.
- How to protect your home or apartment.
- How to recognize if there is a robbery in progress.
- How to protect yourself and your family - and more.
Step 5. All you have to do is contact your neighbors and agree on a date, place and time for a first meeting
Hold the meeting in your home or a neighbor's. Try to choose a time that is convenient for most of your neighbors - preferably in the evening. Then, contact the local police department. They will be happy to offer your group informal lessons and free materials - and, in many cases, window stickers and badges.
Step 6. Remember, police officers can't be everywhere
Your cooperation will benefit you, your family, your neighbors and your neighborhood.
