Issue link: https://townofcary.uberflip.com/i/791958
CHAPTER 9: SERVE 262 Public Safety Cary is considered one of the safest ci es in the na on, ranking in the top five for midsize ci es with the lowest crime rates in the United States. It has achieved this through well-coordi- nated efforts between the fire and police departments. The fire department provides an all-hazard emergency response to fire, technical rescue, hazardous materials, and medical inci- dents. This dedicated team employs advanced technologies and con nuous training to effec vely mi gate hazards and swi ly respond to emergencies. Simultaneously, the police department maintains a community-minded, data-driven, proac ve approach to law enforcement. Officers employ equitable community policing strategies, engage with the public, and strive to build trust, ensuring a safe community for everyone. This includes comprehensive officer training to recognize and mi gate biases alongside an emphasis on de-escala on techniques for peaceful conflict resolu on. With Cary's aging and diversifying popula on along with growth and outward expansion, it becomes increasingly important for public safety providers to analyze the distribu on and concentra on of staff and facili es to provide op mal service. It will be vital for public safety providers to rou nely conduct strategic workforce planning to remain ahead of the curve in a changing landscape. Cary's strategic focus remains on transparency, accountability, and delivering fair and impar al service to all residents and visitors. Furthermore, partnerships with local businesses and adjacent coun es and municipali es will be cri cal to maintaining a secure and thriving community. By con nuing to work together through evidence-based ini a ves, public safety can address shared challenges, promote economic development, and build a safe and resilient environ- ment for everyone. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Universal Design As Cary's popula on and built environment con nue to evolve, so must its ability to accommodate and serve all users. Services and development should be implemented through the lens of ADA and the principles of Universal Design. Universal Design is defined as a way to make products and environments usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adapta on or specialized design. Universal design consists of seven principles: equitable use, flexibility in use, simple and intui ve use, percep ble informa on, tolerance for error, low physical effort, and size and space for approach and use. Applying these principles to Cary's evolving services and built environ- ment will ensure that the design will work for as many people as possible, regardless of their age or ability. This is important to consider as the popula on con nues to age and becomes more diverse.