subject: Creating a Strong Sense of Community is a Great Way to Increase Home Security [print this page] Creating a Strong Sense of Community is a Great Way to Increase Home Security
A large factor in creating a safer neighborhood is building a sense of community. Granted, there is a place for home security systems and neighborhood watch programs, which add to the overall level of home security and safety. However, there is much to be said about a strong sense of community. By building strong relationships among neighbors, neighborhood pride is created, criminals are deterred, and crime is decreased or even eliminated.
When one thinks about home security, their mind automatically goes straight to the devices a homeowner has installed in order to keep burglars out. They think of home alarms and extra dead bolts. They think of floodlights on the garage or overlooking the backyard and more secure window locks. These are the images that likely flash through your head. However, homeowners need to keep in mind that home security involves so much more that what is in their home. Apart from the neighborhood watch program, an important factor outside of the home is a strong sense of community. It can only be established through time and creativity. Consider the following tips when building a strong sense of community in your neighborhood with the purpose of increasing security and safety for all its residents.
Organize a neighborhood organization if one does not already exist. The organization can have several specific purposes but the general goal will be to encourage and develop communication and strong working relationships between neighbors. It may direct the neighborhood watch program if one exists, plan events, and deal directly with the city for a wide variety of purposes.
Start a neighborhood newsletter. This is a relatively inexpensive way to develop a sense of community. If a neighbor is able to donate time or even printing machines, the costs can go down even more. The topics covered can vary depending on the neighborhood. You can use the newsletter to offer yard care advice or winterizing tips for your home, feature a neighbor and what he or she does to improve the community, or even welcome new neighbors into the area. Be creative and make sure to keep it going regularly. Continuity will build the sense of community.
Organize and execute neighborhood-wide events and socials on a regular basis. This is a great way to instantly create community among your neighbors. This is also a fantastic way to get many people involved in planning and executing a common goal, which will also build community and teamwork.
Remember, the best tip you can receive regarding community development is to stay sensitive to the unique characteristics of your neighborhood. If there lacks a central meeting place or park to hold events, consider other types of community-building options such as potlucks, Christmas light decoration contests, or even closing off a street to view fireworks on the Fourth of July. Remember to listen to your neighbors and personalize your approach to your community. You will slowly witness a transformation in your neighborhood among the residents, and perhaps eventually the neighborhood itself will change aesthetically. Criminals will be deterred and crimes will decrease.
