I ran across this article today in the Scranton Times-Tribune regarding the lack of funding that many police forces are facing. Times are tough, and tough decisions have to be made. In order to maximize on the dollars available to them, the author writes that many police forces are shying away from hiring full-time officers, relying instead on part-timers. Not only is the pay lower, but municipalities don't have to pay for benefits... which can add up to significant savings. The downside is that those part-time officers in many cases have to work for multiple police forces to make a livable wage. And as the article points out, that can lead to an increase in overworked, burnt-out officers.
As citizens, we've come to rely on police officers in our times of need. Now, when many are under pressure to perform at ever increasing levels with decreasing funds, we can all do our small part to lessen their burden. Here are a few tips that can help to decrease common crime, freeing up our men and women in blue to protect us against greater threats.
Start a neighborhood watch, or participate in one already established. An engaged neighborhood is also a crooks worst nightmare.
Take a look at your home, and make changes to the landscape if needed. Try to eliminate places where crooks can hide, such as unlit areas or places with heavy vegetation.
Get a security system, and encourage your neighbors to do the same. Crooks know that it is risky to attempt to break into protected homes. In fact, homes without security systems are 3 times more likely to get broken into!
Consider adding video capabilities to your security system. An increasing number of police stations now give preferential treatment to video verification systems.
And finally, if you get the chance, thank a police officer. A few simple words could go a long way in making that officer a little less stressed.
You can find a link to the Time-Tribune article here.
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