10 Things You Can Do Right Now to Fight Crime

Over the years, I noticed many trends, and have gained a certain degree of familiarity with the types of crimes that are common in our area. Here are 10 ideas that I hope will be useful. Please send your feedback, your ideas on how to fight crime, and your personal stories: nwchca@gmail.com

• To avoid having your car broken into, never leave anything of value in plain view--use the trunk or the glove box. Be sure that GPS devices, laptop computers, purses, backpacks, cell phones, cameras, iPods, coats, sunglasses, and even spare change are out of sight. If possible, put valuables in the trunk before you arrive at your final destination so that watching thieves won't see.

• To avoid home burglaries, remember to take all usual precautions (sturdy locks for doors and windows, alarm systems, etc.) Use extra security measures when you're on vacation.

• Nature of Complaint: Be prepared to name the crime that you are reporting. In addition to more serious and violent crimes such as robbery or assault, "suspicious activity" is a valid complaint for requesting a police response. Report "suspicious activity" when people are standing on the street at odd hours, perhaps selling drugs, even if you don't witness an actual sale of drugs. "Suspicious activity" can describe any unusual activity that appears to be criminal. Noise and public disturbance are other good descriptions for behaviors that require a police response. Public drinking, public urination and public drunkenness are also reasons to call the police.
  
• Description of suspects: how many, and for each, age, race, height, description of clothing & shoes, any other information that you can supply: (example: [race and complexion], about 30 years old, short hair, moustache, tattoos on neck, 6'1", 200 pounds, blue jeans, black jacket, red shirt, white sneakers, black baseball cap)
   
• Description of car: (make, model, color, license plate number, year, condition or distinguishing characteristics)
   
• Location and direction: Give a street address or an intersection. If the suspect is moving, give the direction, for example, northwest corner of Otis and Center, traveling east on foot
   
• Time and observations: If the complaint includes a chain of events that happened over time, please be prepared to give the timeframe for each event
  
• When you call 911, give your name and phone number and agree to be "interviewed" (called back) by the police. Often the police need additional information or want to talk to the complainant. If you don't leave your name and phone number, it gives the wrong impression to the police, like you're not really committed to resolving the issue. The police will sometimes behave accordingly.

5. Join NWCHCA
There is strength in numbers! Help the Northwest Columbia Heights Community Association increase its size and strength by becoming a member. Members get to know each other better, make contact with problem-solving resources and stand stronger together against common problems.