NCJ Number
178926
Date Published
January 2000
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This bulletin suggests ways to raise public awareness and educate the public concerning strategies for preventing crime.
Abstract
A group wishing to confront crime in their community must first determine their audience, choose a topic and develop a message. Topics for education awareness projects include prevention of auto theft, the effects of vandalism and graffiti on the community, the benefits of a Neighborhood Watch and the benefits of home security. The group should find out about new technologies, research discoveries and prevention strategies, determine what causes the problem in their community and who in the community should receive this information. Next, they should determine how to get the message out; possibilities include TV, radio, newspapers, a Web site, brochures and posters. The bulletin provides suggestions on recruiting volunteers, gathering resources, what it takes to keep public awareness and education projects going, some of the challenges and rewards of public awareness and education projects and how to evaluate the projects. In evaluating an awareness project, it is important to consider whether and how it meets more general crime prevention goals: reduces crime or fear of crime, is cost effective, has a lasting effect, attracts support and resources, and makes people feel safe and better educated about being in their school or community. Notes, resources