Watching Out for Violent Crime Increases During Summer

During summer, people take time off of work and school to enjoy the balmy weather. Millions of people go to parks, lakes, and beaches, to cool off and relax. Unfortunately, with the increasing temperature of Summer, comes higher rates of violent crimes.

Here’s what you need to know about the rise of violent crimes during summer:

• Studies show a definite correlation between summertime and increasing violence. When the weather is excessively hot, so are people; thus the term "hot-head." Increased body temperature triggers a host of defense mechanisms, from visible perspiration to heightened sensitivity to stimuli. These physiological manifestations can drive a reasonable individual to a tipping point, and a violent crime could be the result. While there is no conclusive evidence, the studies provide enough data to suggest making concerted efforts to keep yourself, and those around you, cool, either through shade, water misting, constant hydration, or staying in an air-conditioned environment. This will definitely reduce the potential eruption of a violent action due to heat-related stress or mental overload
• There are physical signs of potential violent agitation due to heat exhaustion. Heavy sweating, redness in the face, erratic behavior, and sharp reactions to stimuli are clear signs of heat-induced irritation. If left untreated, the person’s condition could worsen, causing them to lash out violently and threaten the safety of others. On hot summer days, it is important to keep your eyes open and watch out for these physical symptoms. If you see someone behaving erratically or displaying signs of aggression, take action. Offer water, ice, Gatorade, a fan, or suggest the person move to the shade. If the situation escalates, keep calm, call the police, and take defensive action if necessary to protect yourself and those around you.
• If you are involved in, or a victim of, violent crime during the heat of summer, there are important steps to take. You should write down the time of day, the temperature and humidity levels, the weather conditions, and the sequence of events of the incident. If you noticed strange behavior by anyone else involved, write down everything you can remember. In addition, you should get the names and contact information for witnesses, and note if anyone took pictures or videos of the incident. It is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible, and to avoid sharing your opinions, observations, and thoughts with others, especially the police.

Since 2005, Scaringi Law has guided hundreds of clients to successful outcomes in criminal court cases. Our Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys tenaciously represent clients. And, whether you're in Harrisburg, Newport, Carlisle, Lancaster, York, Hanover, or Gettysburg, Scaringi Law can provide the legal advice you need as you seek a favorable solution. Our team can investigate your incident, gather evidence, and represent you in court. We pride ourselves on providing personal, efficient service, and we will work hard to fight for your rights.

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