Now on YouTube: Evanston Police Deployment Summaries

Evanston residents interested in public safety have long had the option of friending the Evanston Police Department on Facebook. Now they can follow the department on YouTube as well.

In a move intended to increase public awareness, the Evanston Police Department has begun to post weekly deployment meetings on the city's official YouTube account.

The videos discuss recent incidents and local crime trends. The meetings are posted a week after the deployment occurs to prevent potential offenders from knowing current police operation plans, said Commander Tom Guenther, public information officer at the EPD.

Guenther said the videos are a new way to make residents aware of recent crime in the city and offer crime prevention tips.

In the April 7 video, for example, Guenther discusses a string of recent car break-ins. He reminds viewers to lock vehicles, close windows, and park in well-lit areas. He also suggests removing valuables from vehicles if possible.

"We're trying to use the social media content as a new avenue for informing people," Guenther said about the videos. "It's all an effort to increase the public's awareness."