Keeping Safe at Home

Safety starts at home. I will have direct information for Cedar Rapidsians. If you live elsewhere, some info is generic and can be applied to your situation; however, you will need to verify what is applicable in your local area.

Did you read the March 2025 'Our City' magazine you received in the mail? If you had, you would have seen the article; however, if not, I will provide the information (some verbatim).

Smoke Alarm Installations

The Community Risk Reduction team can install smoke alarms in homes for individuals who are unable to do so themselves. These devices save lives by providing early warnings, giving occupants time to escape.

They coordinate approximately 140 home visits each year, installing new alarms or batteries, testing them, and conducting a brief inspection for other potential hazards. It is a free service supported through community and corporate donations.

Visit cityofcr.com/smokealarms or call Community Risk Reduction at 319-286-5218 to schedule a smoke alarm installation and safety check.

Register Home Security Cameras to Help Fight Crime

Camera footage has proven instrumental in solving and prosecuting crimes.

The Cedar Rapids Police Department encourages residents to register their private surveillance cameras with the Department. This voluntary program enables you to be a proactive neighbor. If a crime occurs, the registration database is helpful for officers and investigators to identify where surveillance video may be available.

Database information is not publicly available. Even with registration, the Police Department cannot access camera images without permission and must request video from the owner. Images can only be requested for aiding a criminal investigation.

To register your camera for the voluntary video surveillance program, visit cityofcr.com/homecamera.