Has the Economy Affected the Safety of Citizens in Your City?

During the last two months, the city of Eugene, Oregon has had an exceptional increase in robberies of banks as well as small businesses. Most people would think that this was being caused by the poor economy which may be in some part true.

If you consider that the city of Springfield, Oregon is next door to Eugene. The two together are close enough to be considered one large city does not seem to be having this problem.

In Eugene, we have had over 20 bank robberies during this time frame as well as many stores and restaurants being held up. As a consumer, I pause and consider before entering any business, especially if I have my children in tow.

City and police officials believe this is caused by the low staffing of our local police force as well as lack of funding for jail beds. Whatever the reason behind the increase, the effect of the fear in the community is real and profound.

As a parent of young children, I find myself careful to only go through the drive up window at my local bank. When going into stores, I try to park close to the building. We even go so far as to try to shop during the daylight hours only when possible.

Because several of the businesses that have been robbed are eating establishments, we also tend to eat at home more, or choose larger restaurants during their busier hours which might discourage a robber.

As a parent of two teens, we have also discussed the wise decision of trying to avoid small convenience stores in the evening hours, instead opting for a local grocery store. If a gas station is a necessary stop, to make sure that they have looked around carefully as well as through the windows before entering the store to be aware of what is going on.

As someone who has been robbed twice while being a bank teller, I can say that the environment in our city does have me a bit on edge. I have concerns for the safety of my children, spouse as well as myself as we go about our daily activities. Being well trained in what to do if I am in a robbery, I also know that being watchful and careful is your best defense and could possibly keep you out of harms way as well as provide helpful information to the authorities.

Take the time to look at the people in and around stores you enter. Is there anything that seems unusual about what is going on? It never hurts to stay in your car fumbling with papers in your purse a few extra minutes if you aren't sure about someone inside.

Jot down a license plate, make and model of a car, and description of someone you felt was suspicious. Maybe the robbery isn't today, but next week and you might just have the final piece of the puzzle to help police solve the crime.