Public spaces attract everyone, the good and the bad. Learn how your city can welcome the good and deter the bad.
Picture this: It's a warm summer afternoon. There’s a gentle breeze, and the sun casts a golden glow over a sprawling green landscape. Families gather on picnic blankets, couples stroll hand in hand down winding pathways, and the carefree giggles of children fill the air.
Public parks are so much more than patches of grass—they are catalysts for community connection. They host gatherings, festivals, and other events, serve as open-air classrooms, and provide a place for reflection and meditation. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. These idyllic public spaces often become targets for illicit activities, which can cause significant distress to community members and add to the already-full plates of law enforcement.
Protecting these spaces is crucial to maintaining safe, united communities. But to do that, you need to look at the big picture—from the dark shadows of criminal activity to the possible courses of action, a comprehensive understanding is crucial to a positive outcome.
While public parks can serve as an oasis, unfortunately, these spaces are also hot spots for crime. Statistics reveal a startling truth— violent crime and property crime rates are over 60% higher in areas near parks.
It is also worth noting that homeless encampments are common in and around parks. And while homelessness is not a crime, certain illegal activities are more likely to occur in areas with large homeless populations. For example, 38% of individuals experiencing homelessness suffer from addiction to alcohol, and 26% struggle with substance abuse. Because of this, communal areas that are densely populated by homeless individuals are easy targets for drug dealers.
Moreover, parks and playgrounds can become prime targets for human traffickers. These criminals exploit the vulnerability of these public spaces, preying on the unsuspecting and leaving communities grappling with the haunting aftermath.
The combination of property crime, drug-related issues, and other increased criminal activity creates a complex challenge for park safety. All too often, these once beloved gathering spaces become criminal hubs that people go out of their way to avoid.
Acknowledging the threats to safety and security in public parks is the first step toward fixing the problem. But how can county officials and local governments combat the above issues and ensure safe public parks? From security guards to surveillance cameras and other monitoring solutions, there are various options to consider. Let's look at the most effective ways to enhance public park security.
Clear signage: Clear signage (such as maps or descriptive text) can enhance feelings of safety. It allows visitors to orient themselves and navigate the park confidently, reducing the chances of becoming targets for trespassers and other unwanted visitors.
Proper lighting: Good lighting enhances the perception of safety and significantly reduces the risk of illicit behavior and illegal activity in public parks. Criminals are less likely to engage in unlawful acts if there is a chance that someone may see and identify them. Well-lit paths, parking areas, and common spaces in the park create a deterrent effect, promoting visibility and minimizing hiding spots for potential wrongdoers.
Property maintenance: Vandalism, litter, and neglected infrastructure create an atmosphere that appears unmonitored and uncared for, leading to an increased sense of fear and more attracting criminal activity. By actively addressing vandalism, promptly cleaning up litter, and maintaining park infrastructure, authorities send a clear message to both criminals and community members that the park is actively monitored and cared for.
Training and education: Ensure that park staff, law enforcement, and community members understand how to prevent crime and respond to incidents. When people are equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize potential risks, identify suspicious behavior, and respond appropriately, they become active participants in maintaining park safety.
Surveillance: Installing surveillance cameras in public parks and leveraging business video surveillance systems in surrounding commercial spaces is a great way to deter unwanted incidents. Overt surveillance acts as a visible deterrent, making potential wrongdoers think twice before engaging in unruly behavior. Cameras not only capture evidence in case of incidents but also create a sense of accountability among park visitors. In addition to existing surveillance measures, mobile security camera tower rentals can be deployed during community events to enhance crowd control and minimize the occurrence of unwanted behavior.
Safe public parks are a vital part of happy communities. These spaces serve as spaces for connection, reflection, and community engagement. By setting up the proper security and surveillance measures, communities can reclaim their beloved parks.
This is where LVT comes in. Our outdoor security units are easy to set up and can reduce crime and other unwanted behaviors by up to 60%. Equipping your team with the best security and surveillance solutions on the market has never been easier. From high-quality cameras and advanced video analytics to loudspeakers, intrusion detection, and more, LVT has what you need.
Together, let's give your community members peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more.
