Burleith, a quiet residential community, exists in an urban environment, and crime is a problem everywhere these days. It is important to be aware of this, and to take precautions to protect yourself and your property (see below). Still, Burleith has one of the lowest crime rates in the area. Our main problems are thefts from cars and from unlocked houses and garages; in a typical month, there are about a dozen such incidents.

The Burleith Citizens Association is a strong supporter of the D.C. Metropolitan Police. A senior officer of the DC Police Second District usually comes to the monthly meeting of the Citizens Association, and gives a presentation on the crime statistics for the previous month and what citizens can do to prevent crime. In addition, the BCA has representatives who meet every month with police representatives to discuss community concerns about any crime-related issues. A crime report appears in the monthly BCA newsletter, and there is a Neighborhood Watch. For further information, call Janice Hopper at 333-5277.

The police frequently urge residents to actively prevent crime by following these steps. Always keep your doors locked, even when you are home. Provide plenty of lighting outside your house. Don't leave valuables in your cars. Be aware of your surroundings; if you feel in danger from someone following you, go immediately to the nearest house and ring the bell. Do not hesitate to call 911 right away if anything happens. The number for the police dispatcher, for non-emergency calls such as noise complaints, is 727-1010.