Resident Safety
At a time when there is an increasing shortage of police officers in many departments through out the country, local citizens getting involved is a key element to fighting crime and making their own resident safety. Consider holding town hall meetings to discuss whats happening in your neighborhood. invite local authorities and elected officials. These meetings are excellent opportunities to voice concerns and discuss odd going on, such as strangers driving around your neighborhood for no apparent reason.
If you are unable to hold town hall meetings, organize your neighbors. You can collect their complaints and send them via email or by certified letter to your local elected official. tell them what your problems are and ask if they can help you. If you put your elected officials on the spot, they will feel pressured to get results. Attend meetings of homeowners association (POAs) and make suggestions on improving securities in the area. In a neighborhood of 200 or 300 houses, there are surely enough people for someone to be on the watch at all times of the day or night throughout the week. Exchange ideas and concepts with other and unite around the common goal of keeping your neighborhood safe. Consider organizing a block party so you can meet and greet each other and learn who is willing to be a part of the watch patrol.
The presence of retirees in a neighborhood is often helpful. Many enjoy being involved in something important that benefits others as well as themselves with resident safety. Let them voice their opinions and listen to what they have to say. They can be a strong element of support , and because they tend not to sleep as long as young people, they may notice things at night that those who watch in the early morning hours and throughout the day might miss.
