Ideas For Halting Vandalism At Community Parks

While in the process of installing a fence Plano Tx, Parks and Recreation discovered something very sad. It seems that the specific park being worked on had become a favorite target among a group a vandals. In Plano fences can be used to create a type of deterrent to thwart the activity of vandals, yet a simple enclosure cannot wipe away the entire problem. In the area of Richardson fence building around parks would be likely to decrease vandalism but by itself would not provide a complete stoppage of the activity. Perhaps the area where you reside is currently seeing a marked increase in park related vandalism. Perhaps you are a community leader, an active volunteer, or just a concerned citizen who is interested in keeping your parks clean, safe, and useful. Here are just a few things that your community may wish to try in an effort to keep vandalism in check.

• Create a neighborhood watch group that will specifically monitor activities at local parks. This group would utilize volunteers to monitor park activities day and night, whether the park be open or closed.

• Work in conjunction with city leaders to prioritize the updating of park lighting. Keeping your parks well lit during dusk and late night hours can really help cut down on unwanted activity. If neighbors are concerned about bright lighting being an intrusion into their nearby homes, investigate motion sensor lighting or lighting which can be monitored through the incorporation of timers.

• Petition your local police department to consider adding an additional park drive by during the hours when the park stays closed. Most police departments will be willing to work with the community, particularly if they have the opportunity to decrease the opportunity for law breaking. The threat of a uniformed officer is perhaps enough to deter a group of vandals from even meeting at a specific location.

• Work with your local Parks and Recreation department to create an environment which is not welcoming to vandalism. For example, can bathrooms be locked when the park is not operational? Can current graffiti, etc. be removed and damaged property be replaced? Parks that are clean and well cared for are most likely to be visited by families rather than vandals.

• Work with your community to create activities for teens that may need a creative outlet during their free time. Sometimes boredom or inactivity plays a part in vandals choice to damage property. Providing a productive and creative activity center where people can come and learn is a valuable community tool. It is also a great way to build unity and excitement within your community.

No community wants to deal with vandalism but staying on top of the problem before it over takes neighborhood parks and facilities is highly advisable. By taking the initiative to address vandalism problems, communities can create safe and clean parks for adults and kids alike. Following the preceding five suggestions will hopefully put your community on the right track to eradicate the problem of vandalism and create the best atmosphere for everyone involved. When community members work together, good things are bound to happen.