Everett, Massachusetts, located just north of Boston, attracts both residents and visitors. Safety is a primary concern for those considering a new location. This overview examines Everett’s safety landscape, using crime data, neighborhood variations, local initiatives, and practical security advice.
Understanding Crime Data in Everett
Crime statistics are categorized into violent and property crimes, offering insight into a city’s safety profile.
In Everett, recent data indicates that the overall crime rate is lower than the national average, 26.8% below the U.S. average. The city recorded 169 violent crimes, translating to a rate of 350 per 100,000 individuals, which is 5.5% lower than the national average. For property crimes, there were 654 reported incidents, or 1353 per 100,000 residents, placing Everett 30.8% below the U.S. average in this category. These figures suggest that the likelihood of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Everett is approximately 1 in 261, and for property crime, it is about 1 in 75.
While overall crime rates in Everett compare favorably to national averages, the Everett Police Department’s 2023 analytical report noted a 9% increase in personal, property, and societal crimes compared to 2022, and a 7% increase over the five-year average for offenses. This report also highlighted specific increases in package thefts, identity theft, swindling, and narcotics violations, alongside decreases in robbery, vandalism, stolen motor vehicle parts, burglary, and credit card fraud.
Neighborhood Safety Variations
Safety can vary significantly across Everett’s neighborhoods. While city-wide statistics provide a general overview, local conditions influence individual risk levels. Factors such as the density of residential housing, the presence of commercial zones, and the amount of pedestrian traffic contribute to these differences.
Certain parts of Everett exhibit varying crime rates; the northwest section is generally safer than the southwest. For instance, the chance of being a crime victim can range from 1 in 62 in the northwest to 1 in 25 in the southwest neighborhoods. Researching specific locations is beneficial to understand their unique characteristics.
Community Safety Initiatives and Resources
The City of Everett and its police department engage in programs to enhance public safety and foster community involvement. These initiatives aim to create a more secure environment for all who live and work in the city. The Everett Police Department (EPD) plays a central role, supported by community partnerships.
One such initiative is the Community Watch program, which encourages residents to participate in crime reduction through proper reporting and proactive actions within their neighborhoods. The EPD also actively participates in events like National Night Out, which strengthens relationships between law enforcement and the community. For non-emergency concerns, residents can utilize the “See Something, Say Something” service by calling or texting 781-734-6677, or by using an online form or app, which is monitored 24/7. The EPD also provides a non-emergency police contact number at 617-387-1212. The department also runs a Drug Drop Off Program, allowing residents to safely dispose of unused prescriptions, thus preventing misuse.
Practical Safety Advice for Visitors and Residents
Maintaining personal safety in any urban environment, including Everett, involves adopting proactive habits and utilizing available resources. Awareness of one’s surroundings and securing personal belongings are fundamental practices for both visitors and residents. These simple actions can reduce the likelihood of becoming a target for opportunistic crime.
When navigating the city, remain attentive to your environment, particularly in unfamiliar areas or during evening hours. Keep personal items such as phones, wallets, and bags secure and out of plain sight to deter theft. For transportation, use reputable services and plan routes in advance.
In any non-emergency situation requiring police assistance, contacting the Everett Police Department’s non-emergency line is appropriate. For immediate threats or emergencies, dialing 911 remains the correct procedure. Familiarity with these resources and consistent practice of personal safety measures contribute significantly to a secure experience in Everett.