Georgia is home to some of the country's most dangerous neighborhoods. Many people who live in these areas get up and go to work each morning wondering what they'll find when they return home in the evening. And taking a vacation, a weekend away or even just a night out can create so much stress that it may not even be worth it to try.
"If you live in one of these neighborhoods, it can be scary, to say the least," says Scott Slade, on-air personality for Atlanta’s WSD Radio, 750 AM and News 95.5 and spokesperson for Ackerman Security. "You may worry all the time about break-ins, or worse yet, your family's safety."
Fortunately, there are solutions, even if you live in one of these seven high-crime neighborhoods.
What can you do?
If you live in or near a dangerous neighborhood, there are actions you can take. Don't just sit still and become a victim.
Make sure your windows and doors are locked - It may seem obvious enough, but check them! People may open a window during the night and forget to close it or accidentally leave the back door unlocked when taking out the trash.
Get a monitored security system - These systems are more affordable than ever, and a good security company can tailor a system to your home and budget. Many offer lost-cost monitoring services for burglary, and some even allow you to watch and control your home's security from your phone or tablet, no matter where you are.
Participate in a neighborhood watch program – Join the watch if there's one available in your area, or start one if there isn't. The more people looking out for each other's property and safety, the better.
Install exterior lighting around your home and trim back bushes - Darkness is the friend of a burglar, as are hiding places. Eliminate them.
Lock your vehicle and garage - Look into installing an alarm system for your garage. Car theft is very common in these high crime areas, and it's well-worth the investment to protect your ability to get to work and school.
Monitor your personal safety - Be constantly aware of your surroundings, especially when outdoors alone. You may want to take self-defense classes at the local community center or get pepper spray. Be especially careful getting in and out of your vehicle in darkened areas or when entering your home.
"There's no reason to sit by and let criminals destroy your hard-earned property or threaten your safety," says Scott Slade. "Fight back with awareness, with the help of your neighbors and with the modern technology specifically designed to help you. A good security system protects every part of your property."
As the country experiences a movement to rescue its neighborhoods from crime, join in and fight back! Protect your home and family with the resources available to you.
Sponsored by Ackerman Security
Crime data sourcing:
https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/