Crime is a nagging problem that affects us all. We don’t like to have to worry about being in personal danger. And we don’t like to worry about our homes being invaded, our businesses being burglarized, nor our cars and other property being stolen.
So it is of special interest that Chattanooga had the third-lowest violent crime rate – but the highest property crime rate – among Tennessee’s six biggest cities in 2009.
The best defense against violent crime is to avoid being in places and situations where violence may occur and where we may be victimized.
Protecting against property crimes means locking our homes, businesses and cars, not creating appealing targets for thieves, having plenty of lights, and generally just being careful.
Our police do their best to protect us and to solve crimes if they occur. But we have a big responsibility to try to discourage the too-many people who may attack us and our property. Take precautions. Be careful.