Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Practice Exam

What is natural surveillance in the context of CPTED?

1. Using surveillance cameras to monitor activity

2. Landscaping that inhibits visibility

3. An area where people and activities are readily observed

4. A design that reduces the need for any human observation

The correct answer is: An area where people and activities are readily observed

Natural surveillance in the context of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) refers to an environment where individuals can easily observe and be observed by others. This concept emphasizes the design of physical spaces in a way that enhances visibility, which deters criminal behavior by increasing the likelihood that illicit activities will be seen by passersby or residents. When an area allows for clear sightlines, it creates opportunities for people to perceive what is happening around them, fostering a sense of safety and community ownership. Features such as open landscapes, strategically placed windows, and well-lit areas contribute to this effect, making it less likely for crimes to occur due to the increased chance of detection. The other options do not align with the principle of natural surveillance. Options that focus on surveillance technology or strategies that inhibit visibility do not promote the goal of enhancing observation within a community setting. Instead, effective natural surveillance relies on the presence of people and their ability to monitor their surroundings collectively, which contributes to overall public safety.