The question of how residents of Old Buckenham can prevent burglaries is a valid one, although it’s reassuring to note that the village currently enjoys a very favourable safety profile. With a population of 1792, Old Buckenham (located within Breckland) exhibits a crime rate of 21.8 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safe environment. Furthermore, Old Buckenham boasts a safety score of 92 out of 100, which is considerably higher than the UK average of 79, indicating a strong sense of security within the community.
While the overall crime rate is low, property crime remains a concern. The property crime rate stands at 3.9 per 1,000 residents. This highlights the importance of proactive measures to safeguard homes and belongings. These measures don't need to be complex or expensive; simple steps can make a significant difference.
Here's what residents of Old Buckenham can do:
- Secure Doors and Windows: Always ensure all doors and windows are locked, even when at home. Consider upgrading to robust locks.
- Security Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around the property to deter potential intruders. Good exterior lighting makes a property less appealing to criminals.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Participate in or establish a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Increased vigilance from neighbours is a powerful deterrent.
- Alarm Systems: While not essential given the low crime rate, an alarm system can provide an added layer of security and peace of mind.
- Valuable Items: Do not leave valuable items in plain sight. Consider storing them in a secure location.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you see anything suspicious, report it to Norfolk Constabulary immediately. Early reporting can prevent incidents.
- Social Media Awareness: Be mindful of what you share on social media, as it could inadvertently advertise your absence from home.
The combination of Old Buckenham's inherently low crime rate and proactive community measures contributes to a safe and secure living environment. While the property crime rate of 3.9 per 1,000 necessitates vigilance, the overall safety score of 92 demonstrates the effectiveness of current safeguards.