Garden Safety We are an urban garden in the heart of Boston, with all the challenges that entails. The safety of our members and visitors to the park is of paramount importance to FGS and the City of Boston. Boston Police officers regularly patrol the Victory Gardens in cruisers, on foot, and on mountain bike. Boston Park Rangers also visit regularly to tour the Emerald Necklace parks. We value our partnership with the BPD and ask that all members and visitors to the park take a moment to chat with officers on patrol. They are here to help. Your fellow gardeners are also here to help. Be sure you know your neighbors. Say hello when you see them, and let them know when you are leaving the garden for the day. Look out for each other and communicate with one another. Carry a cell phone with you at all times and make sure it's charged. Be alert and don't leave personal items unattended, even for brief periods. Lock your garden with a secure lock and chain, even when just stepping out and down the row. (More tips below.) Make sure you report any incidents of vandalism, theft, or suspicious, abusive, or illegal activity immediately to the Boston Police or the Boston Park Rangers if they are in the gardens. If they are not, please contact BPD as soon as possible and file a police report. How to Call the Police in an Emergency Dial 911 on your cell phone, or use the emergency phone located at Boylston and Park Drive by the flagpole. If 911 asks for a street address, tell them: "The Victory Gardens across from 1179 Boylston Street." If you are located closer to the Center Park section, tell them: "The Victory Gardens across from 10 Park Drive." How to File a Police Report Call the Area D Police Department at 617-343-4250 as soon as possible. Please be sure to contact FGS with details as well. Emergency Phone Numbers 9-1-1 Boston Police Department Area D-4--617/343-4250 Boston Park Rangers--617/635-7383 Boston Municipal Police--617/635-3500 Safety Tips Leave before dark. Know your neighbors. Carry a cell phone. Keep it charged. Keep tall shrubs trimmed and aisles clear to maximize visibility. Carry a whistle to alert others that you need assistance. If you hear a whistle, get help. Do not tempt a thief. Don't leave personal belongings unattended or out in the open. Lock your bike. Be alert at all times.