As Mayor, my top priority is your safety, so I am always proud to share that overall crime has decreased 21 percent since 2007 and that we have one of the top-rated fire departments in the nation.
And I am just as proud when I see Orlando Police Department officers and Orlando Fire Department firefighters strengthening bonds with residents. Their commitment to community involvement and collaboration with residents has been extremely evident this week.
On Tuesday, Orlando Police officers joined residents at Howard Middle School for our third Orlando Speaks workshop. During the interactive workshop, residents from different backgrounds and officers spoke openly to increase awareness and understanding of police practices and also strengthen relationships and trust.
This past weekend, the Orlando Fire Department provided free hands-only CPR training to residents at the Mennello Museum of American Art’s Indie-Folkfest and the Orlando Farmers Market at Lake Eola Park. Through the training, which is part of our Take Heart Orlando initiative, we are working with residents to make Orlando a community in which every citizen has the knowledge, skills and ability to recognize and treat sudden cardiac arrest.
OPD not only fights crime, but also prevents crime by focusing on outreach and developing relationships with residents through programs like Neighborhood Watch. Youth programs like Dueling Dragons and Midnight Basketball have led to a nearly 50 percent reduction in juvenile arrests since 2006. And through initiatives like home smoke alarm installations and school presentations, OFD is helping residents learn more about fire safety.
OFD and OPD are both proving that collaboration with residents is making Orlando a safer place to live.
Learn more about OFD’s community programs | Learn more about OPD’s community programs
– Buddy Dyer, Mayor
