For Immediate Release

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Contact: Captain Keith Houghton
Phone: 617-828-5722
Email: KHoughton@chelseama.gov

Chelsea Police Partner with Social Media App “Nextdoor” to Promote Neighborhood Safety

CHELSEA — Police Chief Brian Kyes announces that the Chelsea Police Department has partnered with Nextdoor, a free social network site that allows neighbors to talk about events, concerns, and common interests to create a stronger, safer and more connected community.

“Think of Nextdoor as an online neighborhood watch that gives our residents the opportunity to share information as quickly as possible. Whether it’s about a yard sale or something more serious like crime, the application promotes information sharing to keep the city safe,” Chief Kyes said. “From the Police Department’s perspective, this is a great way for us to engage with the community by connecting directly with residents, which will help us to respond more swiftly and effectively.”

Citizens can utilize the social media site for a variety of uses like informing police about suspicious activity, posting items for sale, announcing events, recommending or providing reviews about local businesses and even reporting lost pets.

The site also creates a platform for police to help residents prepare for emergencies, prevent crime and take action on issues that are important within the community.

“Nextdoor is another tool in our belt that allows the Department to better interact with residents, especially during emergency situations,” said Chelsea Police Sergeant John Noftle, of the Community Services Division. “Anything we can do to improve communication and increase safety in our City is a great benefit for police officers.”

The private application allows users to post or send out emails and text messages to their network. Nextdoor promotes security and safety by requiring users to verify their address and then categorizes members according to specific geographical area.

All communications on Nextdoor are private within specific neighborhoods. Today, Chelsea has 165 residents using their site, with new members joining all the time.

While the social media network is a helpful tool, it should not be used as a substitute for emergency 911 calls or to report a crime in progress.

For more information about Nextdoor, visit their website nextdoor.com/agency or contact the Chelsea Police Department at 617-466-4855.

###