-The perps are becoming increasingly brazen and violent as time goes on (from unoccupied home burglaries to armed robberies and a carjacking). This is an ESCALATING criminal trend and if it continues someone is going to get hurt. It’s very important to report ANY and ALL suspicious activity to police immediately even if it feels politically incorrect to do so. An innocent bored teenager can endure being asked a few questions by police if it means the next mom taking her kids for an afternoon in the park isn’t shot to death.

-Lots of commentary on here about arming up. A word of caution: a firearm is not a magic wand that will scare away thugs. Years ago I personally witnessed an incident where a violent aggressor was undeterred even in the face of a 12 gauge shotgun. Luckily no one was badly hurt then; but the point is merely showing a criminal you have a gun will not always stop them, you have to be willing to use it without hesitation and before the person gets close enough to grab it away from you. A gun should only be produced if you have already made a clear decision to shoot and kill. Obviously that is not a decision to be taken lightly and in my own opinion, anyone buying a gun for self defense should have a long hard conversation with themselves before being confronted with a potentially deadly situation. Pulling a gun, then hesitating or not using it at all are probably far more dangerous than not having one to begin with. Chances are, the perp takes your gun away and uses it on you or someone else. Just food for thought.

-There’s a community meeting with police this coming Monday night at the Solarium, correct? Informal show of hands, how many are going to attend?

Stay safe. Be mindful.

Also the risk of swimming pools vs. guns depends on the age of the child, the prevalence of guns or swimming pools n the community, and the prevalence of safety measures.