What Is Vandalism?
Named after uncivilised barbarians of Roman times, it is wilful or malicious destruction, injury, disfigurement or defacement of any public or private property. Vandalism comes in many forms and robs citizens of time, money and personal property.
Vandalism includes:
- Wilful destruction of public buildings, such as schools belonging to the people,
- Malicious damage of private property,
- A bored group of young people breaking windows and destroying the interior of an abandoned building or house under construction,
- Everyday negligence including gum under seats, graffiti, carpet burns in public places, etc.,
- Unreasonable Halloween pranks,
- Arson.
When Does Vandalism Happen?
Vandalism can happen any time of the day or night and in any season, but it most often occurs:
- in the evening during summer and fall,
- on weekday evenings.
Vandalism has a tendency to decline during winter months when individuals spend less time outside and on Saturdays and Sundays when public buildings and open spaces are under greater scrutiny.
Who Commits Vandalism
There is no single type of vandal. Both sexes and generations are guilty.
Where Does Vandalism Happen
It happens everywhere, but most often:
- where building design and lighting offers concealment and anonymity,
- in areas frequented by young people such as schools, parks, shopping centers and public buildings,
- in unoccupied buildings, open spaces or parked vehicles where minimum surveillance is given to property.
Can We Combat Vandals?
Yes. Be alert to what is going on in your neighborhood.
- be a responsible citizen and report acts of vandalism to the police.
- set a good example for your family and friends. If you see someone about to damage property, discourage them.
- when you leave your house or any other building, make sure a light is on to give the appearance that someone is inside.
- consider a security alarm.
- become involved in a Neighborhood Watch program. It has proven to be an effective means of reducing vandalism by enlisting the active support of community residents in protecting neighbourhood property.
- know what your children are doing.
- teach children to value all property including their own.
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by Sheba