Crime and Pollution in Hagerstown
The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Hagerstown are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 8 user contributions.
This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Hagerstown.
Crime Data in Hagerstown
Crime Perception and Concerns
In 2024, Hagerstown's crime data reveals moderate concerns among residents. The crime index indicates potential challenges regarding property crimes and drugs, although the city is not experiencing extreme levels.
Public safety perceptions vary, with greater comfort expressed during daylight hours despite notable concerns about nighttime safety.
Some notable concerns include:
- Property Crimes - Property crimes, including home break-ins and theft, raise a significant level of concern among Hagerstown residents. These crimes are viewed as a persistent issue within the community.
- Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related issues pose a major concern, with public perception reflecting anxiety about the influence of drugs on community safety and well-being, particularly in certain areas.
- Violent Crimes - While violent crimes are less of a primary focus, there remains apprehension regarding potential assaults and muggings. These issues affect the general feeling of security within the city.
- Public Safety - Hagerstown residents report feeling safer during daylight, though there is an evident decrease in comfort when alone at night, contributing to overall safety concerns.
Crime Trends and Safety
- Rising Crime Concerns - There is a strong belief among the community that crime rates are on the rise. This perception is driven by experiences and media reports, further contributing to residents' unease.
- Specific Fears - Residents have specific concerns tied to property and drug-related crimes despite a lesser focus on threats based on race, ethnicity, or religion. Enhancing community trust in safety and law enforcement remains ongoing.
Summary of Crime in Hagerstown
Despite moderate crime-related concerns, Hagerstown benefits from community initiatives aimed at tackling both property and drug-related challenges. While vigilance remains necessary, these efforts strive to enhance overall public safety.
Crime Rankings
The crime ranking by city for the United States is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Pollution Data in Hagerstown
Air Quality and Pollution Levels
Hagerstown has achieved commendable results in maintaining air quality, with a focus on minimizing pollution from industrial sources and vehicular emissions.
Air quality is regarded positively among residents, contributing to a healthier living environment and quality of life.
- PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - Levels of PM2.5, indicative of fine particulate matter, are controlled within accepted standards but require continued attention to safeguard public health.
- PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are slightly elevated compared to PM2.5 but remain manageable, principally influenced by urban activities and environmental factors.
Waste and Noise Pollution
While noise pollution is present, especially in densely populated areas, it is generally perceived as manageable. Efforts to monitor and control urban noise continue.
Garbage disposal satisfies most residents, with systems in place that promote effective waste management and contribute positively to the city’s cleanliness.
- Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Hagerstown residents express high satisfaction with garbage disposal services, which enhance the city's overall tidiness and environmental perception.
- Noise and Light Pollution - The effects of noise and light pollution are moderate, posing occasional concerns but not overwhelmingly affecting the general quality of life.
Green Spaces and Water Quality
Hagerstown takes pride in its abundant green spaces and parks, which offer recreational opportunities and contribute to environmental benefits.
Drinking water quality in the city is highly rated, with residents having confidence in both its accessibility and safety.
- Green and Parks Quality - The city's parks and green spaces are regarded as a valuable asset, providing relaxation and supporting mental and physical health for residents.
- Drinking Water Quality - The excellent quality and accessibility of Hagerstown’s drinking water are major strengths, contributing to the city's livability and resident satisfaction.
Pollution Rankings
The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
"Key Takeaways"
Hagerstown grapples with crime concerns, notably property crimes and drug-related issues, sparking varying degrees of public worry depending on location and time.
Pollution is well-managed in Hagerstown, with positive air quality ratings and highly appreciated green spaces and water quality enhancing urban living.
Continued focus on reducing crime and maintaining low pollution levels, along with leveraging strengths like green spaces and quality amenities, is crucial to the city’s future development.