The world is a lot different these days, isn’t it? Technology is changing, and more and more people are somewhat “detached” from their neighbours and community.
While there’s nothing wrong with keeping to yourself, there are also advantages to getting to know your local community, such as making new friends, feeling a sense of belonging, and having other people who will look out for you.
That last part is especially important. No one can predict when a break-in may occur, but having connections with the people living around you improves neighbourhood safety. But what else can you do to make your community safer?
Start by following the neighbourhood safety tips we’ve outlined here!
It doesn’t matter if you’ve just moved in or you’ve been living in the same community for the past 20 years. One of the best safety tips to follow is getting to know your neighbours.
You can share contact information if you need a package delivered when you won't be home, or call them in case of serious emergencies. In the same vein, you should also offer yourself as a resource if ever they need help.
Simple things like offering to petsit or going for drinks are great ways to build rapport with those around you. Having that added bit of help and an extra set of eyes is one of the most effective safety tips to improve neighbourhood safety.
Did you know that community policing (also known as a neighbourhood watch) was found to be effective in reducing crime and increasing neighbourhood safety? According to one meta-analysis research, having a neighbourhood watch can reduce crime rates by about 16%. This only proves that there’s safety in numbers.
Additionally, forming a safety watch or joining one increases the number of people you can contact in case of emergencies. Remember: staying connected means staying informed of the crimes that could happen in your neighbourhood.
There’s an advantage to getting to know your local police department, especially if you express your intention to help keep the neighbourhood safe. If you already have a neighbourhood watch program or are planning to create one, then having the contact details of your local authorities helps immensely in case of emergencies.
Another option is to purchase a home security package that includes private guard services or has sensors or sirens. These additional layers of protection could help alert local authorities and your neighbours immediately and deter criminals from entering your property.
A good way to enhance neighbourhood safety is by keeping your yard clean of debris and maintaining foliage. This will lessen the hiding spaces for would-be thieves, especially at night.
Encourage your neighbours to do the same, as this shows potential criminals there’s always someone at home and reduces the likelihood of them breaking in.
Well-lit roads and neighbourhoods have lower crime rates compared to areas without proper lighting and with low residential density. This is because intruders prefer to carry out their plans at night when people are less guarded and less likely to see what’s happening outside.
The problem is that it may not be possible to have street lamps installed in your area, as this is usually subject to approval by local authorities. Not to worry, since turning on your porch lights in the evenings lessens the chances of intruders breaking into your home.
If you’d rather turn off your porch lights to conserve energy, install motion detectors instead. They catch any movement at night and alert you of suspicious happenings.
Of all safety tips, this one might be the easiest: keeping your blinds closed when you’re not at home and at night. Keep your windows closed whenever you go out, and keep your most valuable belongings in a safe or somewhere the thieves won’t think to look.
Doing this makes it less tempting for thieves to break in since they can’t see your belongings inside. Consider installing a window sensor or a CCTV camera if you want to add an extra level of security as they will notify you of suspicious movement on your property!
Above all else, the best safety tip for better neighbourhood safety is to invest in home security systems that offer you the peace of mind you deserve.
Criminals are more likely to target properties that do not have security systems, and almost all home invasions require forceful entry into the home or building. With a motion detector, a doorbell camera, or a security camera in place, would-be thieves will stop and think twice about breaking in.
Moreover, consider investing in a security solution that offers 24/7 monitoring technology which is convenient if you need to leave for work or you’re going on holiday.
While it’s important to follow the safety tips mentioned above, it’s also good to consult home security experts to get the best alarm systems that are right for you.
When it comes to neighbourhood safety, thinkpro has got you covered.
Our home security solutions are designed with the average consumer in mind. Our products are easy to install and affordable. We also offer a no-contract, 30-day money-back guarantee in case you change your mind about one of our products.
Get the best home security with Think Protection. Contact us today at (855) 76-THINK to learn more about our services.