of open spaces can either encourage or discourage crime.
CPTED attempts to reduce crime and the fear of crime by reducing criminal
opportunity and fostering positive social interaction among the users
of a space.
CPTED Defined - The proper design and effective use
of the built environment can lead to a reduction in the fear of crime
and the incidence of crime, and to improvement in the quality of life.
The three elements of CPTED are Territoriality, Surveillance, and Access
Control. When used together, these elements strengthen total premise
security and personal safety.
Territoriality is a persons' desire to protect territory
that they feel is their own and have a certain respect for the territory
of others. The extent to which someone will defend territory depends
on their personal investment in or responsibility for that property.
For example, a homeowner is likely to risk his/her life to defend his
home against an intruder who is threatening their spouse or child.
Here are some economical steps you can take to increase
the visibility of your business:
Surveillance: Criminals do not want to be seen. To defend your property
you must be able to see any illegal acts taking place. Placing physical
features, activities, and people in ways that maximize the ability to
see what's going on discourages crime.
The following tips can help you maximize the visibility to your business
or residence:
-
Improve indoor and outdoor lighting.
-
Illuminate all entrances, exits, and parking areas
-
Clear windows of all clutter
-
Trim and maintain all landscaping
-
Place restrooms in high traffic areas
-
Involve the entire community in your surveillance efforts
Access Control: Properly located entrances, exits, fencing, and lighting
can direct both foot and automobile traffic in ways that discourage
crime. Access Control denies or restricts access to a crime target,
and it also increases the perceived risks of the offender by controlling
or restricting their movement.
Listed are some ways to help you control access to your
properties:
-
Reduce the number of entrances and exits
-
Have guests/visitors sign in
-
Fence or rope off problem areas
The Pine Bluff Police Department encourages its community members to
do their part to establishing a safe and secure environment by incorporating
these three basic elements into their security practices.
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Prevention Through Environment Design ] [ Gang
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Click here to get information
on Safety and Prevention Tips
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our Crime Prevention Safety Guide
