Whether it’s helping to identify a package thief or alerting residents about an out-of-town visitor, neighborhood alert can keep people connected and aware of what’s going on in their community. Neighborhood alerts are often used in tandem with home security systems to provide a safe and secure living environment.
Neighborhood Alert is a free mobile app that allows neighbors to communicate with each other and local law enforcement in real time. It also has features like vacation watch and visitor check, which help homeowners stay informed when they’re away. Neighborhood alert is most effective when residents collaborate with neighbors to build connections and make their communities safer.
Aside from a well-established communication system, look for neighborhoods that prioritize safety in their everyday maintenance and activities. These include street lighting, well-kept homes and sidewalks, and active community involvement. These features can help ensure that neighborhoods remain safe for both current and future residents.
When touring a potential neighborhood, consider how well-maintained the streets and homes are. Look for broken windows, overgrown yards and worn-out fencing that could indicate neglect. You’ll also want to tour the area at different times of day and see how busy the neighborhood is. Heavy traffic and noise pollution can be a deterrent to safe, peaceful living.
Check out online crime data using tools like the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer or SpotCrime, and take into account recurring trends when evaluating a neighborhood. Also pay attention to a neighborhood’s proximity to police and fire stations. Response times play an important role in a neighborhood’s safety, and the ideal is for emergency services to be within 3 minutes of most areas and 1.5-2 miles for fire stations.
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