According to a recent poll, residents of Cleveland, Ohio, have a one-in-17 chance of becoming victims of violent or property crime. The city ranks pretty poorly in home and security safety, natural disaster risk, and financial safety, but it’s the first of these factors that concerns people the most.

While sociologists and elected officials examine the problem, individual residents cannot wait for a solution. Their concern is their safety, which they must care for themselves.

So, how can one stay safe as a Cleveland resident in 2024? Here are a few tips.

1. Safety in numbers

Try not to walk alone when you’re out and about, especially at night. Having someone with you makes you less of a target for potential threats. It’s always better to be in pairs or groups. If that’s not possible, keep someone updated on your whereabouts.

If you find yourself alone at night, which you should avoid, a good trick is to pretend you’re on a call. This simple act makes you seem connected, and anyone watching might think twice before approaching. It’s not foolproof, but it’s better than just walking silently.

When you’re heading somewhere, especially if it’s a late-night trip, let a trusted friend or family member know where you are. It only takes a second to send your location through an app or text, and it ensures someone knows where you should be at any given time. Technology can be your best friend when it comes to safety. Apps that track your movement, like FindMyFriends or even more advanced spy apps, can help loved ones know where you are. Finding top free spy apps for monitoring is easy, and as long as you consent to a friend or family member installing it on your device, it’s completely legal to use.

2. Learn which areas to avoid

Just because you live somewhere and might have heard of one risky area to visit or another, this doesn’t mean you have a blueprint for where to move around Cleveland to stay safe. Even though Cleveland is one of the 15 least safe cities in America, this is not the case everywhere. It’s actually a few neighborhoods that are raising the average, making the situation feel even worse.

One such area is Kinsman, which has a long history of economic challenges and high unemployment rates. You see, these factors contribute to the elevated levels of violent and property crimes. While efforts to improve the neighborhood are ongoing, Kinsman remains a hotspot for criminal activity, so it’s best to be cautious if you find yourself here.

Another area often cited for its crime rates is Central, located near downtown Cleveland. Despite its proximity to the heart of the city, Central is full of gang activity and drug-related crimes. The neighborhood has seen numerous incidents of gun violence and robberies, which makes it one of the least safe areas in Cleveland. If you’re not familiar with the area, it’s wise to avoid walking alone or at night, as these risks are often unpredictable.

Lastly, Union-Miles Park is a neighborhood that has consistently ranked among Cleveland’s more dangerous areas. Violent crime, including assaults and homicides, is a significant concern here. Many parts of Union-Miles Park are underdeveloped, with vacant homes and buildings contributing to unease. Like other high-crime areas, residents and outsiders are urged to exercise caution while visiting.

3. Home security measures

Cleveland residents also need a way to help protect their property.

Cameras around your home do more than just record; they actively deter potential criminals. You see, just the sight of a camera can make someone think twice about targeting your house. Just keep in mind that homes with security cameras are 300% less likely to be burglarized.

Smart locks are also a game-changer. Instead of fumbling with keys, you can lock and unlock doors with your phone. Moreover, you can grant access to trusted friends or family without being there. This makes it both convenient and more secure than traditional locks.

Motion-sensor lights don’t just help you see better at night; they also act as a deterrent for unwanted guests. If someone approaches your home, these lights will turn on, making them feel exposed. It’s a simple way to keep your property safer without much effort.

Keeping your valuables out of plain view is one of the easiest ways to avoid attracting unwanted attention. Store them where they aren’t easily seen from windows, whether expensive electronics or jewelry. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make all the difference.

Your own safety is your responsibility

While it is true that with enough will and the right course of action, the situation in the metropolitan area can improve, you and your family cannot afford to wait. You need to do all you can in order to stay safe and with the right safety measures, you can make quite a difference.

This article appears in Oct 23 – Nov 5, 2024.