I have fond memories growing up in a neighborhood where we knew everyone (or almost everyone) on our blocks and most of our neighbors were able to get along. Remember block parties? Riding your bikes to your friend’s house? Eating at your buddies’ house, then going home to eat?
Depending on the neighbors, determined what kind of relationship you had. I am sure many of you had a neighbor that was not friendly and the one that yelled at kids for being in their yard: “Get off my lawn!” I recall most of our neighbors were pleasant and typically waived or said hello as we rode our bicycles down the streets.
Times have changed for assorted reasons. As a result, many neighbors no longer know each other or have any type of relationship.
Working in law enforcement, it is common to get telephone calls from neighbors who are not getting along. We respond to residences and try to calm down the situation. We typically ask a few questions to help determine what the issues are so “maybe,” we can help them find a solution. Loud noise complaints (barking dogs and music), play a large part in these complaints.
So, what can you do to be a better neighbor? Introduce yourself. No reason to have a complete stranger living next door (my opinion). Practice consideration. Treat others like you would like to be treated (the Golden Rule). If your regularly burning items in your yard or property and the smoke is “smoking” your neighbors out. Can you burn when the smoke least affects your neighbor?
Be mindful of noise levels, especially after 10 p.m. No one wants to listen to loud music or a barking dog. Control your dogs. Clean up after your dogs. No one wants your dog to relieve themselves in their yards. Be mindful and helpful. Communicate openly. If conflict arises, speak to your neighbor and try to address the issue before it becomes a huge issue.
If you have good neighbors, be socially proactive when you are out in the yard or shared areas. Look out for each other, by reporting suspicious activities and inform your neighbors if something is unusual, such as an open door or an open garage door. Small gestures make a difference.
Call us if you need us.
Steven Jeter is Chief of Police of Trinity.
