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Safety Guide1. REPORT all issues
You can report a problem on the City's website at http://311.cityofsacramento.org/s/new-service or by calling 3-1-1.
Also, take pictures and upload them on social media services such as NextDoor. Your eyes, your ears, and your help are desperately needed. Please pay close attention to the area near the Children's Receiving Home. These at-risk children are in the most danger. 2. SUPPORT real help for the homeless
There are real solutions; but the City of Sacramento refuses to consider them. The City's program of busing homeless away from Downtown, rather than treating them, is cruel.
3. DO NOT give money to panhandlersHomeless will often beg for money at the intersections of busy streets or at the entrances of buildings. Unfortunately, this money, rather than being spent on food, is often used to purchase drugs and alcohol. It doesn't help the homeless, but perpetuates their suffering. If a panhandling spot becomes profitable (and, thus, coveted) it can quickly lead to violence over who "controls" the spot. Sadly, by giving the homeless money, you can perpetuate the endless cycle of homelessness, addiction, violence, and death. . 4. DO NOT put garbage bins out at night
Also, do not put the following items in your bins:
5. DO NOT go barefoot outside
Do not allow children to go outside without shoes. If you take your kid to the park, first look around for any needles before letting them play. 6. DO NOT keep hoses in your front yard
You might want to invest in a water faucet lock. They are easy to use and only cost about $14.
Alternatively, you can remove the handle from the faucet using a screwdriver (if the model, you have, allows). Make sure not to lose the screw. It is recommended that you place the handle and screw into a zip-lock bag. 7. DO NOT store valuables in plain siteIt doesn't matter if your car is locked. Remember: anything that can be taken, will be taken. So, any valuables in your front yard (or even your back yard - if you don't have a locked gate) can and will be stolen. 8. TEACH your children about safety
If your child sees any drug paraphernalia (needles, glass pipes, etc...) or a suspicious water bottle, instruct them "don't touch it" and to find an adult immediately. 9. DO NOT leave pets out at nightSome homeless, sadly, suffer from mental illness. The City of Sacramento doesn't provide any services for mental illness at the Auburn homeless shelter. The mentally ill will be left to wander the streets. In their state, they may attack or steal your beloved pets. Keep your pets indoors at night. If your pet is outgoing and friendly, it would be wise to lock it up whenever you are away. 10. BUY a defensive weapon
Pepper sprayThis is a very simple defensive weapon that can temporarily disable an attacker. You can find pepper spray at any "outdoor" store such as REI, Bass Pro, and Sportsman's Warehouse. They cost about $10.
Stun Flashlight
Another useful defensive weapon is the combination of a flashlight & a stun gun. In can be operated like a normal flashlight, but, in an emergency, can be put into "stun" mode. This does, however, requires physical contact to work. They cost between $10 and $20.
Handgun
The ultimate form of protection is a handgun. A good defensive gun, such as the Smith & Wesson SD series (SD = self defense), will cost around $400. Handguns can be purchased at stores like the
Gun Range on Watt Avenue (near
the Wal-Mart). Don't be intimidated. Guns are easy to use and are very safe
(if used correctly). |