Keeping Communities Aware through Social Media

Police Departments have started using social media as alert systems to keep communities aware. They have learned the importance of social media in connecting with their community and keeping them aware. Using social media creates a positive relationship between the police department and its community. It also allows the community to be involved and assist their department by providing information to help in certain cases.

 

The Use of Social Media as Alert Systems

Police have been using social media as alert systems for their communities. According to a recent article in Mashable, “Police Turn to Social Media to Fight Crime, Dispel Rumors,” “A 2013 social media survey from the International Association of Chiefs of Police found that 96% of police departments use social media in some capacity, and more than 80% say it has helped them solve crimes.” The communities have used social media to help their police departments by posting tips and other important information relevant to a case. People have shown to be more comfortable in giving out information online rather than in person. Submitting information in certain areas throughout the country could be dangerous so an online forum is a safer and easier choice. There are many different platforms that police have been using.

Facebook and Twitter are the top platforms for police departments to use, but some departments have turned to other mediums that cater to smaller neighborhoods. Nextdoor is another platform police use that is growing in popularity. In an article, “Nextdoor, a Network to Connect Neighborhoods, Raises $60 Million,” it discusses Nextdoor and its purpose. It was “built to serve small, neighborhood communities and lets users build profiles and connect with their neighbors. It is helpful in many ways — from finding trusted babysitters to alerting neighbors about local emergencies.” Nextdoor is another example of a social media platform that acts as an alert system to keep citizens aware.

Nextdoor, Facebook, and Twitter all use the citizens as its publics. The public is a great resource for the police departments. They can put out information regarding a case over social media and receive instant tips and assistance. Social media platforms also are faster and allow two-way communication between the public and their police departments. This is helpful for people in any organization or community because it is a way to keep the community connected. It creates a relationship not only between the community and the police department but also within the community. The Use of social media platforms as an alert system keeps a community aware and connected.