National City

Unarmed civilian response teams are being deployed to handle certain 911 calls in nearly 100 US cities, replacing police officers for situations like mental health crises and welfare checks. NPR reports that these alternative responder programs are reshaping how public safety is delivered, with cities increasingly sending medics, counselors, or outreach workers instead of armed officers.

The Atlantic argues that a 'great crime decline' is underway in cities and regions across the United States, with violent and property crime falling broadly rather than in isolated places. The piece is drawing attention for pushing back against perceptions that crime is worsening, a topic that has remained politically charged ahead of the new year.

Singapore's national water agency PUB has urged the public to avoid several areas across the city-state because of flash flood risks. The advisory comes amid heavy rainfall, and residents are being told to stay clear of affected low-lying spots until conditions improve. The warning is drawing wide attention as floods can develop quickly during intense downpours in Singapore.

Relation Insurance Services has acquired LaPlaca Insurance, an agency based in Philadelphia, as part of a push to expand its presence in the city and surrounding market. The deal adds LaPlaca's book of business and local client relationships to Relation's growing national brokerage network. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed in early coverage.