Content goes here Are You In Danger?
Things are not looking too good for the popular summer destination. According to the SafeWise Report released on Thursday, August 24th, 2017, Myrtle Beach was named the third most dangerous city in the United States. Among the top 5 most dangerous U.S. cities included Emeryville, California (1st place), Tukwila, Washington (2nd), Lumberton, North Carolina (4th) and Branson, Missouri (5th). The report measures publicly available data on violent and property crime per capita and assigns a ranking based on those values.
How to stay Safe in Myrtle Beach
When we take a look at these findings, they don’t do a good job helping people understand what such a ranking means, and what it doesn’t. It is also important to remember that a high “rate” does not necessarily mean a great deal of actual crime. In these times of economic distress, many people are concerned about the threat of rising crime near their homes and in their communities. Fortunately, there are ways to help protect your home and your neighborhood from crime.
1. Keep Your Doors Locked
Locking your doors and windows may seem like a minor thing, but it is often overlooked, especially when you live in what you consider a ‘nice area’ with friendly neighbors and even a gated community for some people. Times have changed, and burglars are looking for very easy targets. Be careful who you give your keys to, as copies can be made almost anywhere these days. Secure all windows, garage doors, and even patio, garden and utility doors at all times and keep track of where the keys are kept.
“Locks are a significant part of a comprehensive strategy for protecting your home, your loved ones, and your possessions.” – Alfonso E. Lenhardt, President & CEO of The National Crime Prevention Council
2. Start (or Join) a Neighborhood Watch Program
Neighborhood Watch is one of the oldest and most effective crime prevention programs in the country. It brings citizens and law enforcement together and makes the program credible. With the help of police, necessary training, information and strategies can be provided and implemented. Recruit members and hold regular meetings to discuss important issues and create a sense of unity within the community. Stay on top of crime facts in your neighborhood by checking police reports regularly.
3. Park in well-lit areas
At night, it’s best to park in well-lit parking lots, especially for women who are alone. Also, don’t leave any valuables in eye sight, such as a purse, wallet, or even a tablet or iPad when running errands at night. It is not a good idea in general, to have any kind of electronics, laying around in your car, especially ones that can be easily spotted. Try to avoid going to places like ATM’s at night, also.
4. Travel Safely
When you travel, carry credit cards and ATM banks cards you absolutely need. Avoid carrying large amounts of money. Make sure your home is secure and all the doors, windows and gates are fully locked. Lock your vehicle at all times, especially at gas stations or rest areas. If traveling for a long period, have a trusted family member, friend of neighbor come to your house to make sure it is secure. This can be very wise if you’re expecting mail, deliveries or have pets that need to be fed or plants that need to be watered, etc. Also, while staying at a hotel, keep your room key on you at all times. Never leave it lying around in sight like in the car, on on the pool deck where anyone can easily take it.
5. Hire An Investigator
Have you been a victim of a crime? Did the police take a report but you still need an investigation to take place? A Myrtle Beach Private investigator can protect your interests and ensure that all information has been gathered to assist law enforcement. He or she can interview witnesses, take photos and videos, as well as collect any other important data to be used as evidence.
Additionally, In high crime areas, you might find yourself accused of a crime you didn’t commit. As a matter of fact, University of Michigan Law Professor, Samuel Gross has found that up to 4.4% of convictions were wrongful. Investigators can work as part of a defense team and attempt to locate overlooked or mischaracterized information, review police policy and legal standards related to the investigation. They can also conduct background checks of those involved, assist in minimizing the impact of the case against you until the entire situation is resolved.
6. Join a Home Watch Program
Who is watching your home when you’re away for a long period of time? A huge amount of the homes in Myrtle Beach are vacation homes or rental properties. Weekly or monthly visits to your property can be arranged to ensure security. You will be provided with time-stamped photos of your property along with the use of wireless cameras if you prefer. The Myrtle Beach Home Watch Program has been put in place to make you feel safe when you’re not at home, which makes you feel right at home.
There are many ways to stay safe in Myrtle Beach. Even though it made the list of most dangerous U.S. cities, It’s still a major tourist destination and widely known for its wide beaches, excellent seafood restaurants, and outlet-style shopping activities. You can have as much fun as you’d like, but the key is to stay alert and attentive to avoid danger. Just taking a few precautions can prevent crime or worry.