08-I TRPA Grant-Sports Comp. - Laserfiche WebLink

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E. Reducing Vandalism Vandalism frequently occurs in poorly lit facilities during periods of low use. While it can never be eliminated entirely there can be some steps taken to attempt reduction in incidents of destruction of public property. Here are some suggestions: ■ Build out of vandal resistant materials. Believe it or not wood is less frequently vandalized than say concrete walls or concrete masonry. And, even when attacked, wood siding is easier to replace and repaint than damaged block. Brick is less of a target generally than block walls and natural stone or brick colors are usually less susceptible than a painted block or brick wall. Metal walls are not generally recommended. ■ Build vandal-prone structures in high traffic areas of busy parks. Restrooms in corners of small neighborhood parks will definitely be targets. A restroom on the Loop or on another major artery will have fewer attacks. ■ Use lexan or other bullet resistant fixtures with tamper proof screws. Use lamp guards made of inetal over exposed lamps in restrooms. ■ Do not install mirrors, ceramic or plastic fixtures; do not expose conduits; do not use trusses or rafters but rather solid steel or concrete roof supports not affording a hand-hold. Conceal plumbing, use push button flush valves and automatic closing faucets. Install flow regulators on water lines that shut the supply off automatically if excessive flow persists. IN Repair vandalism immediately. Painted graffiti attracts more graffiti. Damaged playground equipment is likely to become more damaged. Sometimes graffiti is used to delineate gang territory boundaries. Remove these signs immediately. ■ Inform the public of acts of vandalism and just how much of their money it took to clean up one individual attack. Offer standing rewards for turning in offenders. -8-