Public Safety

Tight-knit neighbors, better lives: How strong community ties can help Houstonians feel healthier, safer

New Kinder Institute research finds local residents living in neighborhoods with strong relationships and shared values have a higher probability of good health and feeling safe at home.

Safety Climate in the Houston Fire Department

In summer 2023, the Houston Fire Department partnered with the Kinder Institute to better understand the safety climate of its department. Many concerns raised in this study have since been addressed, and the report focuses on perennial challenges.

Houston and Harris County Residents’ Experiences With Perceived Crimes and Incidents Motivated by Bias and Prejudice

This study aims to understand area residents’ experiences of incidents and crimes they believe to be motivated by bias or prejudice.

Who’s Policing the Police?: A Comparison of the Civilian Agencies that Perform Oversight of Police in Texas’ Five Largest Cities

This report finds that civilian police oversight groups need more resources, fewer legislative hurdles, and proper experience and training.