Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Practice Exam

What should be considered when choosing vegetation in CPTED?

1. Seasonal growth

2. Potential height and visibility

3. Flowering times

4. Water consumption

The correct answer is: Potential height and visibility

When selecting vegetation for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), it is crucial to consider potential height and visibility. This is because the way plants grow can significantly impact the safety and security of an environment. Vegetation that grows too tall can obstruct sightlines, which can create hiding places for potential offenders and reduce natural surveillance. Conversely, maintaining low-growing plants can allow for clear sightlines, enabling pedestrians, residents, and law enforcement to observe any suspicious activity. Visibility is key in CPTED, as it promotes natural surveillance, which is one of the primary strategies in crime prevention. By selecting vegetation that does not hinder visibility, you enhance the safety of the area, making it less appealing to potential criminals who prefer environments where they can operate unseen. Thus, choosing vegetation with an awareness of its potential height and visibility directly contributes to creating a safer and more secure environment.