THE community places a high priority on their concerns about local crime, which is understandable.
Despite statistics showing that crime overall is not as high as perceptions would have us believe, there are certain areas that get more than their fair share, and there are certain crimes that are more prevalent than others.
Council works with the police, government agencies, and from time to time, other organisations, to help the community with these issues.
An example of the latter is currently under way with the aim of reducing car theft, a priority identified in the current Lake Macquarie Crime Prevention Plan.
The National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council has provided council with a $35,000 grant to undertake the program, and officers are working with police from the Lake Macquarie Local Area Command to raise awareness of car theft across the city and provide tips on how to prevent cars being stolen.
The campaign targets owners of cars manufactured between 1980 and 2000, as they may not have inbuilt immobilisers.
Having an immobiliser can be a major factor in preventing your car from being stolen.
Part of the campaign involves the distribution of 100 immobiliser vouchers to eligible car owners.
Keep an eye out at your local Lake Macquarie shopping centre over the next week or so for council and police officers - they will be set up at various locations to talk to people about car theft prevention tips and distributing immobiliser vouchers.
Alternatively, you can contact council's youth and safety community planner on 4921 0333 or go to carsafe.com.au
* Greg Piper is mayor of Lake Macquarie.
