Crime Prevention and Community Preparedness National Crime Prevention

Crime Prevention and Community Preparedness National Crime Prevention Council 2007– 2008

Goal of This Presentation To give an overview of crime prevention and learn how various methods of crime prevention can aid community preparedness and homeland security 2 National Crime Prevention Council

Objectives n n n 3 Review the crime prevention framework Learn how to plan for community preparedness Give an overview of homeland security Learn what individuals can do Examine Citizen Corps programs and resources Consider how Neighborhood Watch relates to crime prevention and community preparedness National Crime Prevention Council

Crime Prevention A pattern of attitudes and behaviors directed both at reducing the threat of crime and enhancing the sense of security to positively influence the quality of life in our society and to develop environments where crime cannot flourish Crime Prevention Coalition of America 4 National Crime Prevention Council

The 10 Action Principles of Crime Prevention Crime prevention is. . . 1. Everyone’s business 2. More than security 3. A responsibility of all levels and agencies of government 4. Linked with solving social problems 5. Cost-effective 5 National Crime Prevention Council

The 10 Action Principles of Crime Prevention (continued) Crime prevention requires. . . 6. A central role in law enforcement 7. Cooperation and collaboration by all elements of the community 8. Education 9. Tailoring to local needs and conditions 10. Continual evaluation and improvement 6 National Crime Prevention Council

In Essence… Crime prevention improves the quality of life for every community. 7 National Crime Prevention Council

The Crime Prevention Framework n Crime prevention has a strategic role to play in community preparedness. n Practitioners can help communities apply crime prevention skills to the work of community preparedness. n A safe nation begins with safe, engaged communities. 8 National Crime Prevention Council

Community Preparedness 9 National Crime Prevention Council

Community Preparedness Much like crime prevention, everyone can have a role in preparing for the unexpected emergency. Individuals or families can prepare by… n Identifying meeting locations in case of an emergency n Developing a family emergency contact list n Assembling a disaster supplies kit n Taking a first aid or CPR course 10 National Crime Prevention Council

Community Preparedness (continued) Select a Meeting Location n Most families are not together 24 hours a day; thus, planning ahead is important. n Location points should be commonly frequented or accessible locations. n Schools, public spaces, or neighbors’ homes may be ideal locations to meet. Source: www. fema. gov 11 National Crime Prevention Council

Community Preparedness (continued) An emergency contact list should include n Out-of-town family contact n Work phone numbers n Neighbors’ phone numbers n School phone numbers n County/city emergency management phone numbers 12 National Crime Prevention Council

Community Preparedness (continued) A family disaster plan should include n Two or more ways to stay in contact (e. g. , email, phone, etc. ) n Escape routes from work or home and a selected meeting location n Name and number of an out-of-state friend as a family contact 13 National Crime Prevention Council

Community Preparedness (continued) ■ A description of medical or health needs that will need attention (e. g. , diabetes, asthma, etc. ) n A stock of nonperishable emergency supplies and a first aid kit n A plan for what to do with pets n Training in first aid, CPR, and disaster preparedness 14 National Crime Prevention Council

Community Preparedness (continued) Disaster Supply Kit n Water (1 gallon per day person for 3 to 7 days) n Food (for 3 to 7 days) n Blankets/pillows n Clothing n First aid kit/medicine 15 n n n Toiletries Tools, fuel, duct tape, etc. Flashlight/batteries Battery-operated radio Cash and identification National Crime Prevention Council

Pandemic Preparedness 16 National Crime Prevention Council

What Is a Pandemic? A Pandemic is an epidemic (an outbreak of an infectious disease) that spreads worldwide, or at least across a large region. 17 National Crime Prevention Council

According to the World Health Organization A pandemic can start when three conditions have been met. n n n The emergence of a disease new to the population The agent infects humans, causing serious illness The agent spreads easily and sustainably among humans A disease or condition is not a pandemic merely because it is widespread or kills a large number of people; it must also be infectious. 18 National Crime Prevention Council

Pandemic Preparedness The best ways to protect yourself and others is to stay informed and plan ahead. Here a few items to consider. §Staying informed is the best preparation. • Identify sources you can rely on for accurate information. • Look for information on your local and state websites. • Talk to your local healthcare providers and public health officials. 19 National Crime Prevention Council

Pandemic Preparedness (continued) § Services on all levels may be disrupted. • Consider that hospitals, banks, government offices, etc. may not be available. • Plan for possible public transportation cancellations and/or fuel shortages. • Consider how to care for those with special needs if services are unavailable. 20 National Crime Prevention Council

Pandemic Preparedness (continued) § Employment/Income: Being able to work may be difficult or impossible. • Ask your employer about plans to operate in the event of a pandemic. • Plan for income loss if you are unable to work or your company closes. • Check with your employer or union about leave policies for yourself and family. 21 National Crime Prevention Council

Pandemic Preparedness (continued) § Schools and/or child care may be closed for an extended period. • Talk with teachers and administrators about their plans to operate during a pandemic—consider child care arrangements. • Plan home learning and exercise activities for children who may stay home. 22 National Crime Prevention Council

Pandemic Preparedness (continued) § Staying Healthy: Medical facilities may be overwhelmed during a pandemic. • Take steps to limit the spread of germs: wash your hands, cover your mouth, etc. • Stay at home if you are sick and avoid close contact with those who are sick. • Don’t forget healthy habits: eat well, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. • If you are on medications or are receiving ongoing treatment, talk with your healthcare provider about access to medications and care during a pandemic. 23 National Crime Prevention Council

Overview of Homeland Security 24 National Crime Prevention Council

More than half of American adults (55 percent) are worried about another major terrorist attack on the United States in the coming year. Source: February 2004 Wirthlin Worldwide Report 25 National Crime Prevention Council

Only one in seven American adults (16 percent) believes that his or her community is extremely prepared or very prepared to respond to a terrorist attack. Source: February 2004 Wirthlin Worldwide Report 26 National Crime Prevention Council

Overview of Homeland Security n Prevent terrorist attacks within the United States n Reduce America’s vulnerability to terrorism n Minimize the damage and recover from attacks that do occur 27 National Crime Prevention Council

Definitions of Terrorism 28 n Department of State: “Premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated against noncombatant targets by subnational groups or clandestine agents, usually intended to influence an audience. ” n Department of Defense: “The calculated use of violence or threat of violence in order to inculcate fear, intended to coerce or intimidate governments or societies in the pursuit of goals that are generally political, religious, or ideological. ” National Crime Prevention Council

Key Elements of Terrorism n n n 29 Premeditated—planned in advance, rather than an impulsive act of rage Use of extreme force and violence Coercion of a government or population Furtherance of a political or social objective Carried out by subnational groups, not by the army of a country National Crime Prevention Council

International Terrorism Includes terrorist activity committed by groups or individuals that cross national boundaries. These boundaries can be both physical as well as cultural. 30 National Crime Prevention Council

Domestic Terrorism Includes terrorist acts by groups or individuals who are U. S. citizens based entirely within the United States without foreign direction and whose terrorist acts are directed at elements of the U. S. government or society. 31 National Crime Prevention Council

Potential Targets Symbolic buildings and largely populated areas or events n Examples include hospitals, airports, water supplies, government buildings, civic monuments, dams, or rail lines. n 32 National Crime Prevention Council

Potential Terrorist Threats n Biological: The deliberate release of germs or other substances that may be inhaled, enter through a cut in the skin, or be digested to make one sick. n Chemical: The deliberate release of a toxic gas, liquid, or solid designed to poison people and the environment. 33 National Crime Prevention Council

Potential Terrorist Threats (continued) n Nuclear: An explosion with intense light and heat, damaging pressure wave, and widespread radioactive materials that can contaminate air, water, and ground surfaces for miles around. n Radiation: Sometimes known as a “dirty bomb, ” this weapon uses common explosives to spread radioactive materials over a targeted area. 34 National Crime Prevention Council

Homeland Security Advisory System n This system was designed to provide comprehensive information on the risk of terrorist acts to federal, state, and local authorities. n The system warns of increased threat conditions that increase as the risk of threat increases. 35 National Crime Prevention Council

Homeland Security Advisory System (continued) n Federal departments and agencies would implement a corresponding set of protective measures to reduce vulnerability or increase response capability during a heightened alert. 36 National Crime Prevention Council

Homeland Security Advisory LOCAL RESPONSE System – Local Response As alert status increases there is a greater need for specific public education about threats and safety measures. As alert status decreases, there is a greater need for public dialogue, coalition development, and community scanning. 37 National Crime Prevention Council Copyright 2002 David Carter

Homeland Security Advisory System – Federal Response What do the colors mean to you? 38 National Crime Prevention Council

Threat Conditions and Protective Measures: Low Condition (Green) 39 Department and Agencies Community Members n Refine and exercise n Develop a household prearranged protective disaster plan. measures. n Assemble a disaster n Ensure personnel receive supply kit. proper training on the HSAS and prearranged department/agency protective measures. n Create a process to assess all facilities and regulated sectors for vulnerability to attack and institute measures to reduce National Crime Prevention Council vulnerability.

Threat Conditions and Protective Measures: Guarded Condition (Blue ) Department and Agencies n Check communications with designated emergency response or command locations. n Review and update emergency response procedures. n Provide public with appropriate information to strengthen protective measures. 40 n n n Community Members Hold household meeting to review disaster plan. Update disaster supply kit. Develop a communications plan. Apartment residents should discuss emergency steps with building managers. People with special needs should discuss plans with friends and family. National Crime Prevention Council

Threat Conditions and Protective Measures: Elevated Condition (Yellow) Department and Agencies n Increase surveillance of n strategic/critical locations. n Coordinate emergency plans with appropriate n jurisdictions. n Assess whether threat n requires refinement of prearranged protective measures. n Implement appropriate contingency plans. n 41 Community Members Be observant; report any suspicious activity to authorities. Contact neighbors to discuss their plans or needs. Check with school officials to assess their emergency planning and procedures to reunite children with parents and caregivers. Update household communication plan. National Crime Prevention Council

Threat Conditions and Protective Measures: High Condition (Orange) n n 42 Department and Agencies Community Members Coordinate security efforts with n Review preparedness federal, state, and local law measures for response to enforcement, National Guard, or terrorist actions including other security and armed forces. chemical, biological, and Take additional precautions at public events, from moving to an radiological attacks. alternative site to cancellation. n Avoid potential high-risk Prepare to implement areas. contingency procedures including moving to an n Exercise caution when alternative site and dispersing traveling. workforce. Restrict access to threatened facility to essential personnel. National Crime Prevention Council

Threat Conditions and Protective Measures: Severe Condition (Red) Department and Agencies n Direct personnel to address critical emergency needs. n Assign emergency response personnel; mobilize specially trained teams and resources. n Monitor, redirect, or close transportation systems. n Close nonessential public and government facilities. 43 n n Community Members Avoid public gathering places, public gatherings, and other high-risk locations. Listen for and follow radio and TV advisories restricting activities. Contact employer regarding status of work. Prepare to take protective actions such as sheltering-inplace or evacuation. National Crime Prevention Council

Desired Outcomes of Terrorist Activity n Cause an overreaction by the government n Recognition or publicity for the group n Harass or embarrass the government n Steal money or equipment n Destroy facilities or equipment n Free prisoners 44 National Crime Prevention Council

Pre-incident Indicators and Warning Signs n History has shown that terrorist attacks do not occur in a vacuum. n Attacks are organized and planned weeks, months, and sometimes years in advance. n The planning stage is law enforcement’s best opportunity to prevent attacks. (BJA-SLATT) 45 National Crime Prevention Council

Pre-incident Indicators and Warning Signs (continued) n Persons observed near identified potential targets carrying video cameras or observation equipment with high-magnification lenses. n Individuals observed parking, standing, or loitering in the same area for multiple days. n Persons observed with maps, photos, diagrams, or sketches of facilities. 46 National Crime Prevention Council

Pre-incident Indicators and Warning Signs (continued) n A pattern or a series of false alarms requiring law enforcement and/or emergency response n Reported thefts of military, law enforcement, or fire ID cards, license plates, uniforms, etc. n Nonmilitary persons stopped with military-style weapons, clothing, and equipment 47 National Crime Prevention Council

Crime Prevention and Community Preparedness Programs Work ! 48 National Crime Prevention Council

What Community Residents Can Do n Join or organize a local Block Watch or Neighborhood Watch with local authorities. n Obtain information from www. usaonwatch. com. n Get friends, family, and neighbors involved. 49 National Crime Prevention Council

What Community Residents Can Do (continued) n Stay informed and updated on the news. n Stay alert; be aware of your surroundings. n Practice observation techniques. 50 National Crime Prevention Council

Programs and Resources Citizen Corps Councils Provide a mechanism for local citizen participation by coordinating Citizen Corps programs, developing community action plans, assessing possible threats, and identifying local resources. 51 Website: www. citizencorps. gov/ programs National Crime Prevention Council

Programs and Resources (continued) Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) Provides support for resource-constrained police departments by incorporating civilian Website: volunteers so that law www. policevolunteers. org enforcement professionals have more time for frontline duty. 52 National Crime Prevention Council

Programs and Resources (continued) Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Trains people in neighborhoods, the workplace, and schools in basic disaster response skills, such as fire suppression, urban search and rescue, and medical Website: operations, and helps them http: //training. fema. gov take a more active role in emergency preparedness. 53 National Crime Prevention Council

Programs and Resources (continued) Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) Coordinates volunteer health professionals, as well as other citizens with an interest in health issues, to provide ongoing support for community public health needs and resources during large-scale emergencies. Website: www. medicalreservecorps. gov 54 National Crime Prevention Council

Neighborhood Watch n Crime prevention group organized around a block, defined neighborhood, business district n Serves as eyes and ears of law enforcement n Helps establish/reclaim informal control of an area by observation, visibility, increased social interaction 55 National Crime Prevention Council

Neighborhood Watch (continued) n Time and resources are donated n Usually no formal budget or funding source n Success results in reduction in crime, improved quality of life 56 National Crime Prevention Council

The Benefits of Neighborhood Watch Studies show it is effective because n It brings neighbors together around a common cause—safety and security. n It provides basic skills to all members on preventing crime and reporting suspicious behavior or actual crimes. n It builds a base for correcting neighborhood problems. n It works well with other civic associations. 57 National Crime Prevention Council

Expanding the Scope Neighborhood Watch can serve communities in many ways beyond preventing crime. n It can provide focus for community preparedness, including Community Emergency Response Team training. n Strong, organized, cohesive neighborhoods are better equipped to recognize terrorism and handle all sorts of emergency situations. n 58 National Crime Prevention Council

An Example The Pasadena, CA, Police Department matched the old concept of Neighborhood Watch with the new idea of security for the recreational vehicles at the annual Tournament of Roses Parade Watch, as it came to be known, set experienced neighbors to monitor RVs along the parade route and notify police of any suspicious vehicles. 59 National Crime Prevention Council

An Example In Stafford County, VA, the sheriff’s office identified sites that might be attractive to terrorists, such as reservoirs, train tracks, and bridges. Neighborhood Watches near the sites were invited to get special training on what to report and how to report it with respect to possible threats to these targets. All residents were offered education on preparedness and mitigation strategies. 60 National Crime Prevention Council

Everyone Can Play a Role n Here are some things participants can do. • • 61 Be proactive. Get involved. Motivate others to get involved. Involve all members of the community. Translate national needs into community concerns. Train and practice. Accept the challenge. Begin today. National Crime Prevention Council

Questions 62 National Crime Prevention Council

Resources 63 National Crime Prevention Council

NCPC Resources n Engaging the Power of Prevention: 10 Action Principles, 2005 n Neighborhood Watch Needs You, 2006 64 National Crime Prevention Council

NCPC Resources (continued) 65 n TIPS: With Thanks From Mc. Gruff the Crime Dog, 2003 n Preventing Crime Saves Money, 2005 National Crime Prevention Council

NCPC Resources (continued) 66 n Citizens’ Preparedness Guide, 2002 n Crime Prevention Can Spur and Support Homeland Security in Neighborhoods and Communities, 2003 National Crime Prevention Council

NCPC Resources (continued) Family Disaster Preparedness Tips n These checklists outline what to think about when forming an emergency preparedness plan. They will help to organize what you and your family needs in case of a natural disaster or other emergency, and also suggest ways to increase comfort levels, involve older children and teens, and store and update supplies. § Planning for Emergencies: A Family Guide § Making Sure You've Got What It Takes § Family Link-Up Plan All of the above are available to download at www. ncpc. org. 67 National Crime Prevention Council

Resources on the Web n Federal Emergency Management Agency www. fema. gov n Environmental Protection Agency www. epa. gov n World Health Organization www. who. int/en 68 National Crime Prevention Council

Resources on the Web (continued) n U. S. Department of Homeland Security www. dhs. gov/dhspublic n Neighborhood Watch www. usaonwatch. org n American Red Cross www. redcross. org 69 National Crime Prevention Council

Resources on the Web (continued) n Business Health Services www. bhsonline. com n National Criminal Justice Reference Service www. ncjrs. gov 70 National Crime Prevention Council

The National Crime Prevention Council 2345 Crystal Drive Suite 500 Arlington, VA 22202 202 -466 -6272 FAX 202 -296 -1356 www. ncpc. org 71 National Crime Prevention Council

Presenter Contact Information 72 National Crime Prevention Council