Crime and Pollution in Watertown
The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Watertown are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 1 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 Watertown.
Crime Data in Watertown
Crime Perception and Concerns
In 2024, Watertown, SD presents a moderate crime landscape with an overall crime index of 50. Residents generally feel safe, particularly during the day, although concerns about property crimes and drug-related issues are evident.
The public safety perception indicates high confidence in daytime safety, but there is wariness regarding nighttime security.
Some notable concerns include:
- Property Crimes - Property crimes are a significant concern for Watertown residents. Worries about theft, including car-related thefts, suggest a need for improved security measures in certain areas.
- Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related issues are notably troubling for residents, highlighting the need for community interventions and support systems to mitigate these concerns.
- Violent Crimes - Fears surrounding violent crimes are subdued in Watertown, with many residents expressing less concern about physical assaults and robberies.
- Public Safety - Residents feel exceptionally safe during the day, supported by effective community policing and a strong sense of community vigilance. However, there is a noticeable drop in feelings of security at night.
Crime Trends and Safety
- Rising Crime Concerns - There is no prevalent belief that crime is increasing in Watertown, indicating a stable perception of safety over time.
- Specific Fears - There are particular fears about car theft and racial or ethnic targeting, suggesting a need for focused safety initiatives and community dialogue to address these issues.
Summary of Crime in Watertown
Watertown continues to maintain a moderate crime environment with areas needing attention, particularly property crimes and drug-related issues. Community efforts and police presence are essential to enhancing safety perceptions.
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 Watertown
Air Quality and Pollution Levels
Watertown, SD enjoys relatively good air quality, contributing positively to residents' health and lifestyle choices. Pollution levels are generally low, offering a favorable environment for daily activities.
Residents report satisfaction with air quality, underscoring the effectiveness of local environmental policies.
- PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - The PM2.5 level in Watertown is low, reflecting a clean air environment that supports healthy living conditions for residents.
- PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - Similarly, PM10 levels are moderate and well-managed, helping to ensure favorable air quality throughout the city.
Waste and Noise Pollution
While noise and light pollution are minimal, maintaining this balance is crucial for sustaining Watertown's quality of life.
Waste management seems to be handled adequately but could benefit from enhanced strategies to improve public satisfaction.
- Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Garbage disposal satisfaction is neutral, suggesting room for improvement in waste management practices to better meet residents' expectations.
- Noise and Light Pollution - Noise and light pollution are not significant concerns in Watertown, aiding in a tranquil urban atmosphere.
Green Spaces and Water Quality
Green spaces, while rated neutrally, provide essential benefits and are seen as adequate by many residents.
Drinking water quality could see enhancements to elevate public perceptions and ensure consistent reliability.
- Green and Parks Quality - Green and park quality is moderate, offering recreational spaces that residents appreciate but see as having the potential for further development.
- Drinking Water Quality - Drinking water quality perceptions are neutral, indicating a demand for more reassurances about water safety and access.
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"
Watertown's crime concerns center around property crimes and drug-related offenses, with residents feeling generally safe, especially during the day.
Pollution levels are low, with air quality seen as a positive aspect of Watertown life, though there is room for improvement in waste management and water quality.
Continued community engagement and infrastructure improvements are key to enhancing the city's livability and residents' quality of life.