Staying in an environment where one feels insecure has a toll on one’s overall well-being. Some people may not know that they are in a bad area until they are already trapped, but some clues can be used to determine the problem. Below are 15 signs that you might be living in a bad neighborhood.
High Crime Rates
The first and the most obvious indication of an area of concern is the high crime rate. Any report of theft, vandalism, or violent crime should be a cause for concern. This is especially true on the local police department’s website which contains crime statistics that can provide a shade on the safety of that neighborhood.
Visible Gang Activity
This is an obvious sign that your neighborhood is starting to weaken. You should always look out for drawings with gang symbols, groups of people wandering, or an increase in gang activities in any area.
Poorly Maintained Properties
A sign that you may be in a bad area is neglect. This means that houses and structures with cracked windows, paint fading, and messy lawns are instead seen as neglected.
Abandoned Buildings
One sign is an increase in the number of empty houses or shops. Old structures can attract criminals and most of the time cause a feeling of abandonment in society. They also have the effect of degrading property values and pose a threat to safety standards.
Trash and Litter
Garbage disposal in the neighborhood, trashed streets, and growing litter accumulation demonstrate an unsightly neighborhood’s state. Lack of cleanliness does not only affect the appearance.
Lack of Community Services
A good neighborhood should have parks, recreational centers, and grocery stores. If all these facilities are missing in your community it may be diagnosed that the area is not well provided with infrastructure investments.
High Turnover Rate
However, if you see new lots coming up often and many houses are in the market all the time this can mean that people are dissatisfied with the area. Indeed, some reasons for a high turnover rate can include an insecure workplace due to poor safety measures and living conditions.
Unfriendly Neighbors
If you note that you are surrounded by neighbors who are not friendly or who avoid human interaction can be a sign of isolation. First, people who live nearby should be approachable and willing to encourage others.
Poor Street Lighting
Poor lighting of streets and roads makes an area insecure, especially at night. Illuminated roads come with more risks because they offer criminals the possibility to act in secret if needed. If you discover that your area is not well illuminated, then it is high time you think about your safety.
Noise Pollution
Hustle and bustle from vehicles, neighbors’ music, and other noise sources can interfere with your quality of sleep. Some noise-making is acceptable, however, continuous noise-making points to the inadequacy of respect among some residents and therefore a sensitive area in each of the apartments.
Drug Activity
Any signs of drug selling or taking substances are clear indications of a drug addict. Drug hot spots normally are associated with high levels of crime, and a general erosion of the security in communities. If you find yourself in such activities, you must start taking your safety seriously.
Poor Road Conditions
It revealed that bad roads and pavements, potholes, and cracked sidewalks mark the area as a territory that is not worth investing in. Conditions on the roads are also poor, and this can lead to physical dangers and the general abandonment of the center.
Limited Public Transportation
Adequate public transport where isn’t available becomes a major problem for residents, as they are unable to commute to work, school, or services. Lack of transportation is associated with economic deterioration and decreased security in the area.
High Unemployment Rates
A high unemployment rate within a neighborhood is likely to cause economic problems and high crime rates. Employment-scarce neighborhoods lack adequate resources to offer protection against any incidence.
Lack of Community Engagement
Last of all, a complete lack of activity such as community events, meetings, or volunteer opportunities may well mean that the neighborhood is very detached. This means that the engagement of people in their respective communities makes them more alert and take responsibility in matters concerning their safety.
Conclusion
Dealing with the signs that would help you know that you are living in the wrong area is very crucial from the perspective of security. From high crime rates and neglect to unfriendly neighbors and a lack of amenities, knowing these signs will help you avoid bad neighborhoods. If you have placed yourself in a risky environment, consider ways to improve your security or search for a better environment for yourself and your family.
