Community Safety

Crime is becoming more prevalent in many communities. Here are some steps you can take to keep your home and neighborhood safe.

● Get to know the people in your neighborhood.

● Do not post your vacation dates on social media.

● Let a trusted neighbor know if you are going on vacation so they can supervise your home, watch your pets, or gather your mail.

● Lock all doors and windows, whether inside or away from home.

● Close all blinds and curtains to maintain privacy in your home, especially at night when it is easier to see inside.

● Install Motion-Sensor lights by the entrances of your home.

● Install a security system.

 ● Do not flaunt new purchases on social media or leave the boxes of those purchases beside your trash can outside. Make sure they are hidden inside your trash can or keep them hidden in your home.

● Get a dog, preferably with an intimidating bark.

● Create a Facebook page involving your neighborhood.

● Create a neighborhood watch and report your findings to your neighborhood Facebook page.

● Keep objects in your vehicle hidden. If you purchase expensive objects, make sure to bring them into your home right away.

● If you have a garage door, make sure the door opener is not inside a vehicle parked outside.

● Shred all personal information before you throw it away.

● Know where your local police and fire stations are located and how far away they are from your home.

● Make sure your children know your neighborhood and where their home is located. Accustom them to road safety and potential encounters involving strangers when they leave the house.

● Get to know your children's friends as well as their parents. Know where they live and their phone numbers in case of an emergency.

● Educate your children on problem-solving skills. Teach them to use words rather than violence if they are caught in a bullying situation.

● Make sure your child has a way to contact you or the police when away from home. If need be, give them a phone that can only be used for emergencies. Tracking the phone is also encouraged.

● Set boundaries for your family. Teach them safety precautions involving certain situations.

Whether you are existing or new to a community, safety measures are encouraged to keep your family and others in the community safe. In addition, create friendships and maintain boundaries so you can feel comfortable in your environment.

Gangs

A Gang is a group of people who join together for a common cause and associate in criminal activity. Some are even called a "Crew," which is loosely knit and usually involves a neighborhood. Both groups are connected to crimes such as assault, drug trafficking, gun violence, and homicide. This is established as a community problem.

Who Is Usually Involved in Gangs/Crews?

Young adults usually seek support and trust from others when they do not receive it from their families. They also feel "safe" in these groups, especially if they do not feel safe in their own homes. They join these groups to feel powerful and connected to their peers. Peer pressure is a big part of these communities. The excitement rooted in this lifestyle usually comes from other members and the media, which is not considered how dangerous they really are. Gang members often recruit young people to commit crimes because they think juveniles will receive lighter penalties than adults. But this isn't true.

What Can Parents Do?

Parents can educate their children about gangs and the dangers they pose. Ensure your child is involved in other activities to keep them busy and occupied after school. Find out what they do in their free time and who they hang out with. Making your child feel loved and respected at home is a significant factor. Explain that you value their safety and show that you care. If you believe your child is involved in a gang- using gang symbols, wearing gang attire, or discussing gang-related activity—you must act fast. Find a responsible adult that your child can trust. Let them open up about their feelings and potential involvement.

What Can Young Adults Do?

If a gang member approaches you about joining, tell a parent, teacher, guardian, or police officer immediately. Show that you respect them but decline nicely. Stay away from areas with heavy gang activity and peers who are involved.

Signs of Involvement:

● Not showing up at school

● Declining grades

● Negative Change in attitude

● Alcohol or drug use

● Staying out later than usual

● Gang graffiti drawn on personal items

● Gang attire (increased specific colors)

● Gang-related tattoos

● Owning weapons

● Questionable acquaintances

● Pictures with friends expressing gang signs or bandanas