Survey of Burglary and Vandalism Occurrence and Preventative Measures in Twenty-Five Large California School Districts. Summary Report.

Twenty-three California school districts responded to a burglary and vandalism survey conducted by the Fresno Unified School District Burglary and Vandalism Prevention Project, which represents the first phase of a developing program to reduce vandalism occurrences and improve recovery of losses. This summary compiles survey data on 18,000 occurrences of damage or loss to buildings, glass, equipment, buses, and nonspecified areas amounting to $4,500,000 dollars. The total loss recovery by all techniques utilized in the 23 reporting districts amounted to $432,000, with an average recovery percentage of nine percent. Reported onsite anti-vandalism techniques include the use of fencing, floodlighting, lexan/plexiglass windows, protective screening, burglar alarm systems, security patrols, and guard dogs. Survey results also reflect administrative measures taken, such as community action committees, neighborhood school alert systems, publicity campaigns, telephone "hot lines," police cooperation, and court cooperation. However, from the evidence reported, it appears that no effective means of preventing burglary and vandalism occurrences has been developed, and several suggestions are made for improving preventative measures. (Author/JF)