Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
CPTED recognizes that crime and other problems can arise out of various environmental conditions related to a location or business.
It attempts to reduce or eliminate those opportunities by using elements of the environment to:
1) control access.
2) provide opportunities to see and be seen.
3) define ownership and encourage the maintenance of territory.
4 principles of CPTED:
Natural Surveillance
By designing an area to more clearly show physical features, guests, and goings-on, you minimize the ability for criminals to hide what is going on around you, further discouraging crime. Landscaping and lighting are 2 easy methods to be proactive with "natural surveillance." The 3 main types of surveillance are natural, organized, and mechanical:
Natural Access Control
In public and semi-public spaces, properly located entrances, exits, fencing, landscaping, and lighting can direct foot and motor traffic in ways that automatically discourage crime. "Access control" can look like adequate locks, doors and window barriers that help keep unauthorized persons out of specific areas.
Territorial Reinforcement
People naturally protect a "territory" they feel is their own and have a certain respect for the "territory" of others. Clear boundaries can help indicate a clear sense of ownership and attentiveness. "Territorial reinforcement" can be achieved through fences, pavement, art, signs, good maintenance and landscaping. Identifying intruders is much easier in such well-defined spaces.
Maintenance and Management
Well-maintained landscaping, good lighting, and property cleanliness indicate ownership and guardianship, enhance feelings of safety, reduce illegitimate use, and increase legitimate use of the property.