The question of how to prevent burglaries in Harlington is a common one, and fortunately, the village enjoys a generally good safety profile. While no location is entirely immune, Harlington demonstrates a lower crime rate than the national average. The crime rate in Harlington stands at 52.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, considerably less than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a relatively safe environment, however, preventative measures are still vital.
Specifically concerning property crime, Harlington experiences a rate of 18.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. Understanding this rate, in conjunction with the village's overall safety score of 87 out of 100 (compared to a UK average of 79), highlights the importance of proactive home security.
So, what can you do? Here are some practical steps to minimise your risk of burglary:
- Secure Your Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows have robust locks. Consider upgrading to British Standard (BS) locks for enhanced security. Regularly check that locks are functioning correctly.
- Improve Visibility: Burglars often target properties that offer easy access and limited visibility. Ensure bushes and trees don't obscure windows or doors. Consider installing motion-sensor lights to deter potential intruders.
- Neighbourly Awareness: A strong community network is a powerful deterrent. Get to know your neighbours and consider forming a neighbourhood watch scheme. Sharing information about suspicious activity can significantly enhance security.
- Consider an Alarm System: While not essential, an alarm system can provide an additional layer of security and alert you and the authorities to any suspicious activity.
- Don't Advertise Your Absence: Avoid posting on social media about being away from home. Ask a neighbour to collect your mail and newspapers while you’re away.
- Mark Your Valuables: Consider marking valuable items with identifying marks. This can deter thieves and make it easier to recover stolen property.
By implementing these relatively simple measures, residents of Harlington can further enhance their home security and contribute to maintaining the village's positive safety record.