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Community safety and security remains a concern for most people nationwide. Escalating crime incidents continue to cause significant harm to individuals and businesses, which threatens community development. Read on to learn more about the importance of community safety and security.

Crime Reduction

Lower crime rates contribute to an improved community. A safer environment leads to fewer injuries and fatalities from violent contact crimes. Additionally, it alleviates the anxiety and stress associated with living in a high-crime area.

Other ways that a community can benefit from enhanced safety and security include:

• Reducing the need for excessive police resources and redirecting funds allocated for additional policing towards productive initiatives.
• Enjoying a higher quality of life without worrying about being a victim of crime.
• Improving the confidence community members have in the police and related government institutions.
• Ensuring a positive social impact for the youth.
• Addressing underlying issues like poverty, lack of education and substance abuse as the root cause of criminal behaviour.

Increased Sense of Security

Community safety is fundamental to ensuring a thriving environment where children can grow with an increased sense of security. Moreover, a lack of community safety might also influence other things, like property values, which can directly affect local economies.

While the government should prioritise security in communities, residents can take charge and consider these tips:

• Establishing a community watch group.
• Consider private security.
• Starting a safe walk program for those who walk alone after dark.
• Using the FREE-to-use iER App to report illegal activities.
• Encouraging community members to be proactive in maintaining safety measures.

Enhanced Community Bonds

The conversation around public safety mainly revolves around crime prevention. When there is more focus towards uplifting community members and pouring resources such as the police and private security units, a holistic approach towards public safety can be provided. This can create a secure environment to strengthen community bonds, which can ensure the following:

• Mental health, financial and emotional support among community members.
• Community members act as first responders and can diffuse conflict.
• Community empowerment initiatives.

Community Participation

Participating in different activities within your community can significantly impact your well-being. It is essential to be aware of initiatives to enhance safety and security. Most importantly, it provides a sense of belonging and an understanding of underlying issues that require immediate attention to better the community.

Other benefits of community participation include:

• Progressive engagement on issues affecting everyone.
• Networking opportunities through community service.
• Building trust and improving communication and understanding.
• Increased inclusion of marginalised individuals and engaging unrepresented people.
• Informed decision-making that focuses on solutions to reduce safety and security concerns.

Positive Impact on Local Economy

When a community successfully reduces violent crime, it can take advantage of a thriving local economy. Small business owners don’t have to spend more on unnecessary costs, such as protection fees, to provide security for criminal activity prevention. Additionally, insurance claims will lessen, and there won’t be a need to overspend on costly security devices.

A positive impact on the local economy can also:

• Open employment opportunities.
• Improve living standards by addressing poverty and unemployment.
• Better living conditions for most community members.
• Enhance quality of life.

Sustainable solutions to reduce and prevent crime are necessary to build safer environments. Preventing criminal behaviour and improving community engagement to address issues that affect victims have significant benefits. The FREE-to-use iER App can help improve community safety and security by connecting you to essential services to ensure your neighbourhood remains safe.

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