Melton’s top cop and a community safety guru will meet Diggers Rest residents next week to talk about preventing crime.
A growth in the crime rate, hoon driving and the lack of a police presence in the town prompted the forum, Diggers Rest local David O’Connor told Star Weekly.
Inspector Kathy Rudkins and Community Against Crime director Tim Payne will go over residents’ concerns, and talk to them about the use of new technologies in cutting crime.
Mr O’Connor said some locals had been calling for a Neighbourhood Watch group and a Safe House network, but these initiatives were tried previously “with little success”.
“The Community Against Crime initiative embraces the use of new technologies, including mobile apps, digital photography, email newsletters and security surveillance,” Mr O’Connor said.
“CAC provides an excellent set of tools to help residents address some of the crime-related issues, which include graffiti, wilful criminal damage and hoon driving.”
Mr Payne has developed two smartphone applications – Crime Alert, which is free and pinpoints criminal activity in neighbourhoods, and the paid app HELP CAC.
“My number one tip for safety is don’t talk on social media about what your plans are,” Mr Payne said.
“Criminals love that information – they love to know you’re not at home that day.”
The community safety forum starts at 7pm, Friday, September 16, at Diggers Rest hall.
Details: Inderdeep Thar, 9747 7200.
