In the autumn of 2025, the municipality carried out an extensive village safety survey as part of the “Safe everyday villages in Hollola” project. The purpose of the survey was to map villagers’ experiences of safety, community spirit and their own preparedness for everyday disturbances. 199 people from different parts of Hollola responded to the survey.
Based on the results, villages are mainly perceived as safe and communal. Respondents trust in neighborly help and support from authorities in case of disturbances. The desire to help others and act together in case of disturbances was particularly emphasized. A significant number of respondents highlighted shortcomings in traffic safety, such as
the lack of pedestrian lanes and street lighting, and the poor condition of the roads. Several sections of road were repeatedly named as dangerous, and they directly affect the residents' sense of safety.
In terms of community, respondents felt that the atmosphere in their village was mainly positive, but the lack of meeting places – especially for young people – weakens community spirit. Some respondents estimated that disruptive behavior has increased due to the lack of community places. In many villages, associations are active, but in some, activity is declining.
The level of preparedness of households in Hollola is better than average when compared to national surveys. Respondents own basic supplies such as fire blankets, essential medicines, backup power supplies and first aid kits, but deficiencies were observed in the adequacy of household resources, especially with regard to water. In addition, almost a third of respondents felt uncertain about how to act in a disturbance situation in their village.
– It was gratifying to see how well the residents of Hollola are prepared for everyday disruptions. We received extremely valuable information about what the villagers think about everyday safety and how to improve it, says Project coordinator Tea Sissonen.
Many respondents wished for the village to receive 72-hour home emergency training.
– The project will organize training sessions for the villages involved in the project next year. We thank all the residents who responded to the survey, says Sissonen.
The results of the village safety survey provide valuable information for the municipality, authorities and village associations to develop local safety and preparedness. The report will also be distributed to the villages participating in the project and the village safety groups that will be established in them.
More information and interview requests:
Tea Sissonen, project coordinator, Hollola Municipality
tea.sissonen@hollola.fi or 044 780 1557.
