Community Safety
&
Awareness
Keeping University Park Estates Safe & Informed
University Park Estates -
Protecting what we value.
The UPENA board will strive to provide fact-based safety updates and practical prevention guidance for residents of University Park Estates. The goal to promote awareness and reduce opportunities for crime through proactive communication and community involvement.
We are committed to sharing informed, practical guidance and strengthening communication so we can work together to keep our neighborhood safe and well-connected.
“Awareness, prevention, and community involvement are the foundation of a safer neighborhood.”
Community Safety Focus Areas
Vehicle Safety & Awareness:
Most vehicle-related incidents in residential neighborhoods are crimes of opportunity. In many cases, entry is gained through unlocked doors or by targeting visible items left inside. Simple preventative habits significantly reduce risk.
• Always lock vehicle doors, even when parked at home
• Remove valuables from the vehicle or store them completely out of sight
• Avoid leaving bags, electronics, wallets, or garage door openers visible
• Do not leave spare keys inside the vehicle
Even a few minutes of inattention can create an easy opportunity.
Lock & Remove Valuables:
When possible, park vehicles in a driveway or garage rather than on the street. Vehicles parked closer to the home benefit from increased visibility, lighting, and in some cases, camera coverage.
If street parking is necessary, choose well-lit areas and avoid leaving vehicles in the same location for extended periods.
Parking Considerations:
• Ensure driveway and front exterior lighting is functional
• Consider motion-sensor lighting covering the driveway area
• Visible security cameras can act as an additional deterrent
Criminal activity often targets areas with low visibility and minimal lighting.
Lighting & Visibility:
Community Concerns & Public Activity:
From time to time, individuals may pass through the neighborhood or temporarily occupy public areas. While our community remains generally safe, awareness and appropriate reporting help maintain order, cleanliness, and safety for everyone.
Occasionally, individuals experiencing homelessness may walk through residential streets or public spaces. In most cases this does not result in criminal activity; however, residents should remain mindful of securing property and avoiding unnecessary confrontation.
If behavior becomes disruptive, suspicious, or unlawful, residents are encouraged to contact the appropriate non-emergency city or police resources.
Suspicious Activity & Fraud Awareness:
From time to time, residents report door-to-door solicitors, unfamiliar individuals walking through the neighborhood, or activity occurring during late evening or early morning hours. While many encounters are legitimate, it can sometimes be difficult to determine intent.
Residents are encouraged to exercise caution, particularly during hours of darkness. Do not feel obligated to open the door to unknown individuals. You may request identification through a closed door or security device and verify business permits when appropriate. If something feels unusual, trust your instincts and contact the non-emergency police line rather than engaging directly.
Residents who prefer not to receive door-to-door solicitation may consider posting a clearly visible No Soliciting sign near their entryway. Such signage can serve as a helpful deterrent and sets clear expectations for anyone approaching the residence.
"Awareness, simple precautions, and timely reporting"
Residential Security Reminders:
"Consistency and awareness cost nothing!"
The vast majority of residential incidents are crimes of opportunity. In many cases, simple daily habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of theft or intrusion. Most preventative steps do not require expensive equipment — just consistency and awareness.
Garage & Entry Security
Open garage doors, unlocked side gates, and unsecured entry doors create easy opportunities. Recently, property was reported stolen from a garage that had been left open. Incidents like this are preventable with a few simple precautions:
• Close garage doors when not actively in use
• Lock the interior door connecting the garage to the home
• Secure side gates and ensure latches are functioning properly
• Avoid leaving valuables visible inside garages or near entry points
Cameras & Technology:
While not required, security cameras and doorbell cameras provide both deterrence and documentation.
• Doorbell cameras help monitor deliveries and unexpected visitors
• Cameras covering side gates and rear yard access points add another layer of protection
• Ensure camera systems are visible — visibility alone can discourage activity
Lighting & Visibility:
Lighting remains one of the most effective and affordable deterrents.
• Leave a porch light on during hours of darkness
• Install motion-sensor lighting near driveways, side yards, and rear areas
• Trim landscaping that blocks visibility of doors and windows
Even modest lighting improvements can significantly reduce concealment opportunities.
Additional Practical Reminders:
• Retrieve packages promptly
• Avoid leaving tools, ladders, or equipment accessible outdoors
• Reinforce sliding doors and secondary entry points
• Get to know your immediate neighbors and communicate when traveling