Crime prevention has always started with the community.
In order for us to reach our goals, we need your help.
Here are 10 things you can do to prevent violence:

1. Teach children good safety habits while walking to and from school and playing in the neighborhood. Insist on knowing at all times where your kids are, whom they are with, and what they are doing.

2. Get involved. Volunteer to help in anti-crime and other neighborhood and community improvement efforts. Encourage groups you belong to (such as religious, civic, and social) to help stop crime.

3. Use common-sense tips to reduce your risk of being a crime victim. Stay in well-lighted, busy areas; travel with a friend if possible; walk in a confident, assured way. Avoid known trouble spots.

4. Report crimes and suspicious activity to police; agree to testify when necessary. Stand up for what you believe in if you want a safe community.

5. Get to know your neighbors and agree to look out for each other. Get organized; work with the police.

6. Find ways to settle arguments without violence. If you resort to violence to settle disputes, this is what you teach your children. Be a good role model.

7. If you own a firearm, remember that your obligations as a responsible owner include training in firearm safety, safe storage, and careful handling within the laws of your state and local jurisdiction.

8. Use common courtesy. It helps ease tensions that can result in violence. Teach kids that good manners are important.

9. Don’t carry illegal weapons, buy stolen property, use illegal drugs, or engage in other criminal activity. It’s the wrong message to send a child.

10. Make sure your children know safe places to go when they are scared or need help. And make sure they know where you are and how to reach you. Have them memorize or carry with them important phone numbers.