A New Website From the DPS Is Helping Austinites Find Relief From Crime

AUSTIN, TX, May 30, 2013

With what seems to be an increase in national crime rates, locals might be feeling slightly uneasy about their safety and peace of mind. The Texas Department of Public Safety has created a new website called iwatchtx.org that allows users to report any suspicious activities around the area. Anything from strange packages placed on doorsteps, to someone taking pictures of security cameras can be reported to the site. Iwatchtx.org has been in place since January of 2013. Over 130 reports have been made of suspicious activity.

The DPS explains that reports can be made over examples such as "strangers asking questions about building security features," briefcases or packages that are left behind, vehicles that are parked in no-parking zones by important buildings, "chemical smells or fumes that are unusual for the location," and several other examples. The goal is to provide Texas citizens a easy way to report anything that is suspicious so as to make our streets safer. The website should help for events such as hoax bombings on the University of Texas at Austin campus. Last September a call was made that stated multiple bombs had been placed throughout the campus. Students and staff had to evacuate the entire campus. While students may have been relieved to get a few extra hours to study or work on a paper, the bomb threat was something we do not want to become a regular event.

Iwatchtx.org can help with events like this in the future by allowing citizens to find out about threats and dangerous situations earlier. Dr. Parahzur, a UT professor, explains that the site will allow citizens to gain confidence and awareness of their community and its safety features.

This article was written by Jason Randall, an expert in Northwest Austin homes for sale.

http://www.jgrandall.com/northwest-austin-communities.php