subject: Five Suggestions for Greater Neighborhood Involvement and California Home Security [print this page] Five Suggestions for Greater Neighborhood Involvement and California Home Security
Securing your California home requires a multi-faceted approach. At the same time, don't forget the things that you can do that will not cost you a dime. While you certainly ought to install a good home security system to receive the best and most fundamental layer of protection, there are things you can do in your neighborhood to increase the overall level of home security each homeowner experiences.
Becoming more active in your community is often the overlooked step in developing a safer and more secure home. One can get caught up in the devices that need to be installed in the home and forget about the more simple things that only demand one's time and effort.
One should not forget the basic devices that offer your property the needed layer of protection against possible burglaries. These devices include the home security system and all the devices that come with it, as well as extra locks, security cameras, doorjambs, and other things that offer to make your exterior doors stronger. Once that is done, however, turn your attention to the community at large. There are several things you can do in the neighborhood that will improve everyone's level of safety and security.
Get involved in, or start, a neighborhood watch program. A watch program will clean up the streets and make them safer. A security presence on the streets is known to markedly decrease the amount of crime against property in a given neighborhood. Start one if it does not already exist, working closely with the nearby police department and city leaders.
Attend meetings or develop a neighborhood association that will provide greater vision and community awareness to its residents. A neighborhood association is more geared to social events or activities. It develops a stronger sense of community within the neighborhood, which is important to get people talking and looking out for one another.
Plan or participate in community and neighborhood events. Once the events are planned, take part in them and encourage neighbors you know to do the same. Eventually more people will attend if they see you and others lending their time to the cause.
Communicate with your neighbors. While it seems small, many neighborhoods are beds of crime because their neighbors don't talk to each other.
Be an extra set of eyes and ears for your neighbors while they are away. It is not difficult to look after your neighbor's property while they are away, even if not specifically asked. You can still keep an eye out and report any odd activity.
None of these five suggestions will cost you a penny. All they ask of you is some of your time and effort. Over time you will notice differences in your neighborhood and on its streets, as a sense of community and teamwork is developed. Home security will increase for you and for each of your neighbors, increasing property values at the same time. Together, you and your neighbors will create a safer neighborhood for you and your children.
