Sub-System I Physical Environment – The Windshield Survey

Order Description Windshield surveys involve simple observation, the collection of data that will help characterize the community, the trends, stability, and changes that will affect the health of the community. Using the Windshield survey as a guide, drive a car, take public transportation or walk a neighborhood. Only utilize your five senses for the collection of data – there is no need to include data from websites in this section (I understand ONLY using the 5 senses may not be possible so please include sources, which I will then omit as needed). Present a narrative assessment of your community. Follow the guide below and address the following: Housing Age? Construction, condition, repair? Separate? Connected? Yards? Environmental and Open Space Green space? Trees, parks, lawns. How used? Public or private? Terrain? Safety hazards? Sounds and odors? Pleasant, noxious? Source? Sources of pollution? Type of boundaries (neutral, physical, or economic)? Are there distinct neighborhoods? Name or identity? Transportation Types (plane, car, train, bus, walk)? Availability and condition of streets and roads? Major highway near? Is public transportation available? Transport for those with special needs? How access? Shopping/Common Areas What types of stores are there? How do residents get to the stores? How do the prices compare with other areas? Where do people gather? Do they form groups? Who are they? What times of day? On the Street What people do you see on the streets during the day? Homeless? Animals-strays, watchdogs, pets, wild animals (i.e., deer)? Signs of Decay Is the community young and growing? Mature? Is it “alive”? Trash, abandoned cars, political posters, real estate signs, abandoned houses mixed zoning usage? Race, Ethnicity What evidence do you see of various ethnic groups, races, cultures? Eating places? What is the predominant language and are any others heard? Religion Of what religion are the majority of residents? Places of worship? Types? Safety Services What safety services (fire, police, EMS) are available? Health How far is it to the nearest hospital or clinic? Nearest public health facilities? Recreation Recreation centers, signs of activity at schools or parks Community Development Any political posters? What parties? Evidence of community groups? Nearest public offices? Communication Outdoor television antennas? What print media is read? Is there a community newsletter? Community event signs? Signs of community pride? Industry? Type? _____________________________________________________________________ Note. Adapted from "Community as partner: Theory and practice in nursing" by E. Anderson & J. McFarlane, 1998, 2nd ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott-Raven Publishers, p. 186. Previously adapted from Terry Mizrahl, School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University. Adapted with permission.