Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Business and law enforcement co-op


A good effort.

Hopefully many in the area will participate.


City businesses urged to help deter crime



The New Braunfels Police Department is reaching out to local businesses to help keep the city safe.

NBPD Chief Ron Everett on Monday touted the importance of local business owners in crime prevention to members of the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce board of directors.

By forming watch groups, using online resources and utilizing training from the NBPD, he said the more than 2,000 businesses in New Braunfels can better make sure their property, and the community, are safe.

“Having businesses be our eyes and ears will help deter crime in our city, help us apprehend suspects and overall just make this a better place to live,” Everett said.

He encouraged business owners to use online tools such as www.crimeweb.net to receive updates of criminal activity in the city and to use www.crimereports.com to receive a better idea of what crimes have taken place in their area. Business owners also can have the NBPD evaluate their alarm systems, help train their staff or check to make sure their office, restaurant or warehouse is as safe as it could be.

And like residents, businesses also are encouraged to alert the NBPD if they see any suspicious activity.

“New Braunfelsers over the years have always partnered up to make this a better place to live, work and play,” Chamber President Michael Meek said. “The Police Department certainly understands the importance of the businesses helping prevent business crime.”