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The Miami Gardens Police Department offers public safety tips to Residents and business owners in a variety of ways to ensure that everyone is aware and informed on how to stay safe in their neighborhoods during the pandemic and even after it’s over. Captain Joseph Nargiso, head of the Operations Division, says in an effort to encourage community cooperation MGPD is reaching out through several innovative programs. “We try to prioritize our accessibility for all our Residents, including children, the elderly and those with disabilities,” explains Captain Nargiso.
Outreach efforts begin with the Department’s Community Enrichment Team. Once the risk of spreading Coronavirus is over, the team will resume meeting regularly with its neighborhood watch groups to share crime prevention tips. The Department also provides security assessments for Residents through the Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) program. “We have certified officers who will go to your business or home and tell you your [security] strengths and weaknesses, so we can hopefully avoid break-ins in the first place,” explains Captain Nargiso.
For Residents planning to be away when the pandemic is over, the Department will continue to offer the Extra Watch Order program, which provides extra surveillance for your home. This service is available for those going on vacation, or even those with homes being tented for insect fumigation. “Just call and let us know when you’re going away,” says Captain Nargiso. “Our officers will be notified and check in periodically. They will walk around the house and make sure everything is secure. This is also a 24-hour service.”
Thanks to public cooperation, there has been a considerable drop in home and vehicle break-ins throughout Miami Gardens. The City has seen a 34 percent decrease in home burglaries and 40 percent reduction in vehicular crimes.
In addition to participating in these programs, everyone can also adopt simple changes to remain safe. Captain Nargiso recommends the following:
Know Your Neighbor:
Get to know your neighbors, and perhaps join a watch group to notice when things are out of the ordinary.
Keep Tidy
Maintain your yard, cutting back trees and shrubbery so potential burglars have nowhere to hide.
Install Lights
Extra lights around your property can eliminate hiding spots for burglars.
