Summer is here… maybe not “officially” yet, but it sure feels like it: longer hotter days, school’s out, and pools are open. It’s also the time of year where we typically see an increase in crime, mostly thefts, break-ins and, occasionally, more serious incidents.
I’m not a subscriber to the argument that crime is part of the package that we all bought into when we decided to live in-town. Crime can happen everywhere and at any time that we let down our guard and accept it as a fact of life. It can be reduced through careful observation, logical thinking and cooperation among neighbors and with the authorities.
We live in a beautiful and popular neighborhood that we should strive to keep it safe for us and welcoming to our visitors, so please don’t confuse my message to stay vigilant with a call to report any stranger walking down your street. Few of the good practices in keeping crime at bay revolve around not making yourself an easy victim, these include:
- Keep your car clean of electronics, bags and purses
- Locking side gates, side doors and windows
- Installing sensor-activated lights, cameras and alarms
- Locking your bikes and keeping them out of sight
- Report graffiti and request that it gets cleaned up as soon as possible
- Stay vigilant, and if you see something, say something
This is not a call to action, but a reminder that we need to stay aware of what’s happening in and around our neighborhood, and maintain communications using social media (primarily NextDoor.com) and other channels about any suspicious activity. Stay safe and have fun this summer.
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