Monday, October 14, 2013

October is National Crime Prevention Month

Since 1984, October has served as National Crime Prevention Month, a time to reflect on what we can do to prevent crime and stay safe. During this month, government agencies, civic groups, schools, businesses, and youth organizations have reached out to educate the public, showcase their accomplishments, and explore new partnerships.

Not only is this month a great time to focus on crime prevention, but it also is a time to focus on Halloween safety for the little ones (trick or treating) and the big ones (going downtown to festivities and parties). While law enforcement will do their best to keep our society safe, it is important that citizens work together to keep their community safe as well. Some great ways to do this is by getting to know your neighbors, coworkers and community members. Working with them, you can help come up with ideas so that you know you are helping each other stay safe and protected.

For those little ones trick or treating, here are some tips:

·         Make sure to wear bright, reflective clothing so that cars can see you.
 
·         Carry a flashlight with you and make sure the batteries work.
 
·         Only go trick or treating in well lit areas and have an adult or trusted older child with the younger children at all times.

·         Make sure to look both ways before crossing streets.

For those big ones going out to parties and festivals, here are some tips:

·         Watch for pedestrians on roads when a lot of people are out.

·         Don’t drink and drive.

·         Keep your purse or personal items close to you.

·         Walk with your head up and eyes and ears alert to prevent predators from thinking you are an easy target.

·         Walk in groups and don’t go down streets that are not well lit.

·         If you find yourself in an emergency, remember to dial 9-1-1 for help. Do not text to 9-1-1 as only some areas of the U.S. have this capability currently.

For more information on how to stay safe during crime prevention month, please visit http://www.ncpc.org/about/news/october-marks-crime-prevention-month.
 
Kansas City Crime Prevention Efforts
 

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