Bonney Lake and Enumclaw attract residents for a variety of reasons. SafeWise, a company that provides resources and reviews related to home security, named both in its list of Washington’s top 50 safest places to live.

Bonney Lake made the list at number 43, with a violent crime rate nearly three times lower than the state average. Only six robberies were reported in 2012, even though the city’s 2010 census boasted a population over 17,000 people and it continues to grow. Crime statistics for 2013 were not immediately available at the time of press.

Bonney Lake Police Officer Daron Wolschleger credited the safety of Bonney Lake to a goal-oriented police department that’s passionate about their relationship with the community.

“From top to bottom, we have a great group of people who share the same goals. We enjoy working hard to make Bonney Lake safe and a great place to live,” Wolschleger said. “We have an outstanding relationship with the citizens in the community and that makes a huge difference. We pride ourselves in the extra things we do outside of enforcing the law, such as the Citizen’s Academy, Shop with a Cop and National Night Out.”

In addition to police involvement and low incidents involving violent crime, the list commended Bonney Lake’s variety of family-friendly activities, such as Tunes @ Tapps and Bonney Lake Days. The events planned each summer at Allan Yorke Park help create an environment that fosters low crime rates, said Bonney Lake Special Events Coordinator David Wells.

“With more people using the park on a regular occasion, you end up with a more positive environment. When you have fewer people around, people are more willing to push the envelope on causing mischief. Last year when Spike and the Impalers were at Tunes @ Tapps, we had over 2,500 people in the park and not a single arrest,” he said.

Enumclaw came in at number 32 and was advocated as an optimal location for family households. A special nod was given to its “rolling fields and picturesque dairy farms.” Access to outdoor recreation opportunities and a low violent crime rate contributed to its spot on the list. Those who call Enumclaw home are 85 percent less likely to become a victim of violence, compared to those who reside in other parts of the state, according to SafeWise.

SafeWise acquired statistics for their list from a combination of FBI reports and other resources. For more information about the state’s 50 safest cities, please visit the SafeWise website.