Troubled Times Lead to Higher Demand for Home Security

Police in the Washington, DC area are reporting increases in property crimes. No one has directly linked the recent economic downturn to the crime increase, but there are many who believe this is the case. According to the most recent statistics, property crimes in the Washington area have jumped anywhere from eight to twenty percent in recent months. Other cities in the United States are reporting similar findings.

University of Missouri-St. Louis criminologist, Richard Rosenfeld, stated that widespread financial troubles often lead to increased crimes, especially street robberies and property crimes. Economic woes can influence people to take desperate measures, especially when the future appears bleak everywhere. Roberto Hylton, Acting Police Chief of Prince George County, noted that there have been quite a few crimes committed by inexperienced criminals recently. These criminals leave obvious clues, leading police to conclude that they are individuals who would not normally commit crimes. It is possible they have turned to crime as a last resort.

Most crime officials will discourage us from panicking. This may be difficult to do when our personal safety is at stake. Interviews with citizens in the Washington, DC area pointed to a common theme: they aren’t going to wait to find out if there really is a correlation between the hard economic times and rising crime rates. They are taking action now to protect themselves and their families.

Sales of personal safety and security products will likely increase as there are more reports of increasing crime rates. The thought of being a crime victim may spur many to find ways to be proactive and protect themselves, their loved ones, and their personal property. "Better safe than sorry" is what many citizens seem to be thinking lately, and they are making plans to ensure their safety.

Taking extra security measures, such as installing a home security system or organizing a Neighborhood Watch program, can help ease the nervousness many people feel today. Common sense is important, too. Avoid walking alone at night, be aware of your surroundings at all times, lock your doors, and use your home security system if you have one.

Many of us are on edge about layoffs, plummeting 401k’s, and the general feeling of uncertainty. The rising crime rates can add to our stress. Finding practical ways to protect ourselves and our families will help us feel in control of the situation.

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