Dear viewers: I just wanted to say to each and everyone of you Happy New Year and thanks for watching WJXT TV 4, and for most of all taking advantage of all of the tips and advise I get to share with you everyday.

With that being said, I wanted to remind you of a few things that I would like for you to remember to keep yourself and your loved ones safe throughout the year.

Recently our city has experienced a number of shootings in our neighborhoods. Three of these shooting have been described as drive-by shootings. Drive-by shootings generally are not random acts, however, there are exceptions.

People who live in these communities affected by drive-by shootings more frequently need to band together. You cannot sit back because your home or your loved one was not struck by this gunfire and say it doesn't affect you because it does. If you have information that could lead to the arrest of these individuals I would encourage you to contact police and give them information on whatever you know. Who knows, God forbid you could be next.

The next thing that needs to happen is communities need to get to know each other to the point that you watch out for each other when you go away on trips or vacations. If you see someone that does not belong in your neighborhood who is looking or acting suspicious do not hesitate to contact the police, no matter how many times you have to call them.

Needless to say, you have to be proactive in lieu of being reactive all of the time. If you find yourself in a situation where you are home, in a place of business, or even on the streets and gunfire is erupting, hit the floor or ground. If possible, take cover. If you have a cell phone contact the police and tell them where you are and what's happening. Do not place yourself in harm's way. Just do the best you can when trying to remember the description and details when talking to police.

If you're the type of person that does not want to interact with the police, you can always remain anonymous and contact Crime Sstoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS. However, the main thing is that you give police whatever information that you have, no matter how.