Keeping Your Family Safe: Why Getting to Know Your Neighbors Is Important

Living in a neighborhood has plenty of benefits, like other kids for your children to play with and fellow bakers who loan you sugar, but it can also be a bit scary. When you don't know your neighbors, you might not feel comfortable letting your kids play outside or walking the dog at night. Here's why getting to know your neighbors is important and how you can keep your family safe.

Builds Trust

Only about half of Americans say they trust most of their neighbors. When you don't know who your neighbors are, you're not likely to trust them, and when you don't trust your neighbors, you lose connections. If you have excellent neighbors, you'll be able to ask someone to check your mail while you're on vacation or keep an eye on your kids when you have to run to the store.

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But how do you build trust with your neighbors? If you haven't already, formally introduce yourself and your family to the neighbors. This will give you a good foundation for building trust, plus you'll learn your neighbors' names. Make sure you participate in neighborhood activities, and if there aren't any, consider starting some. A monthly book club or barbecue could bring your neighbors today and help you get to know each other. If problems happen in the neighborhood, like a neighbor hosts a loud party on a school night, handle it respectfully and kindly. Your neighbors will appreciate your tactics and you'll build your relationship on respect.

Builds Feelings of Security

When you know and trust your neighbors, you will feel more secure in your home. People who don't trust their neighbors tend to feel more disconnected and lonely. In fact, not being connected to those around you can make you physically ill, while those who trust their neighbors have a lower risk for heart attacks. When you know your neighbors closely, you'll be able to feel secure in your neighborhood. You'll know that your neighbors will come help if someone tries to break into your home or kidnap your children.

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If you want to feel more secure in your community, conduct a free background check on your neighbors. The information is public, so you're not violating anyone's privacy, and what you learn will help you feel more secure in your neighborhood. You can also start a neighborhood watch program. With this program, you and your fellow community members will be empowered to prevent crime in your area. Being involved in this program and knowing who else is involved will help you feel safe and secure.

Builds Community

When homeowners buy single-family homes in Easton, PA, they're considering the area and the home itself. They'll also need to consider the type of community they'd like to live in. If you have children, you should find a neighborhood where other kids live. Just doing this will help you build a community for your family. When you know and trust your neighbors, you're building a community. This can be invaluable. It will help you feel happy, connected, and important to others. Participating in neighborhood events and introducing yourself to others will build life-long connections. Your children will make friends for life, and you'll have other people in your area to rely on. Don't underestimate how valuable a community of people can be for your family's happiness and health.

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Knowing your neighbors can make all the difference for you and your family. You'll find friends and a community that helps you feel like you belong. Get to know your neighbors and you'll see the lasting effects of friendship and camaraderie.