Elyria police joins Ring's 'Neighbors' public safety app

ELYRIA — The Elyria Police Department has joined Neighbors, a free app offered through Amazon's Ring, to connect with residents and improve safety in the community, the department announced Wednesday. Neighbors allows users to share photos, videos and information related to local crimes and safety concerns so fellow residents may stay informed, the department said. Elyria police also may view what residents post publicly to Neighbors and can chime in with relevant updates and safety alerts to help residents stay informed about what is happening in their neighborhoods. Residents do not need to have a Ring doorbell camera or device to join Neighbors, only a smartphone to download the app in order to receive updates and the option to post videos and photos. Police will not have access to user cameras, live video streams or personal information, and can only view videos and other information publicly posted on the app, according to a Neighbors fact sheet shared by the Police Department. The app also does not provide access to the addresses where the devices linked to Neighbors are located, and citizens are identified by number only. More information can be found at help.publicsafety.ring.com. Criminal activity and emergencies should always be reported to police by dialing 911 in an emergency or calling Elyria police dispatchers at (440) 323-3302.