According to the United States Disaster Center, around 13 million people are victimized by crime in the U.S. every year. In fact, crimes like murder, larceny-theft, forcible rape, robbery, burglary, assault are responsible for more “death, injuries and loss of property than all natural disasters combined" in the U.S.



While a complete elimination of crime is most likely out of the question, there are things we can do to prevent crime and minimize its harmful effects on our loved ones and ourselves.

First is, as mentioned earlier, you can have outdoor security cameras installed in your home and its immediate surroundings. This will warn you of any trespassers and allow you and your family to protect yourselves and find a safe place to hide in. Having security camera systems serve as early warning devices also enable you to alert the authorities should this event happen.

To help prevent crime (particularly in your area) you and your neighbors could also organize a watch group that will roam the area at night or be on the lookout for people exhibiting suspicious behavior and report them to the proper authorities. To ensure the program’s success and the safety of the people who will join it, you should coordinate with the local police. They will not only provide your group with proper training, they can also help enlist additional members.

Going out late at night alone is courting danger; so do avoid exploring downtown by yourself after dark. If you consider yourself to be a nocturnal character who just have to go out at night, then ask a friend or two to go out with you. Remember, there is safety in numbers.

When outside, you should also exercise utmost care and caution. Avoid walking in dark alleys, as you don’t know who or what is lurking behind the shadows. Look inside your parked car and check if someone is hiding in the back seat before you enter it. Do not withdraw cash from ATMs at night when you’re alone.

Another thing that you could do is to be extra vigilant and observant, especially when you’re outside. If you think a person is acting suspiciously, then report it to authorities. It is always better to be safe than sorry, right?

This may sound like a cynical point of view, but you would also prevent crime from happening to you if you do not easily trust strangers, even those who seem to be harmless. One good example: Ted Bundy. The notorious serial killer would lure victims by faking injuries and asking for their help. When he has earned their trust, he would lure them to his car and bludgeon their head with a crowbar.

It would also do you good to remember that a criminal does not always fit the predefined image we have of them. A thief could be in a tailored suit. A rapist could have a charming personality. A violent serial killer could appear to be your everyday, quiet guy. Always be on your guard.

An ounce of prevention, the adage says, is better than a pound of cure. This could not be any truer than in the case of crime.

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