While Lidlington, a Built-Up Area in Central Bedfordshire, generally enjoys a good level of safety, vehicle crime remains a concern for residents. The area has a population of 1650 and a crime rate of 46.7 per 1,000, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6. This suggests Lidlington is a safer place compared to many parts of the country, as reflected in its safety score of 88 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. However, it’s crucial to take preventative measures to protect your vehicle.
Understanding the context is important. While the overall crime rate is low, the property crime rate in Lidlington stands at 14.6 per 1,000. This highlights that theft, including vehicle crime, does occur. Therefore, proactive steps are necessary.
Here’s how you can help prevent vehicle crime in Lidlington:
- Secure Your Vehicle: Always lock your vehicle, even when parked at home. Ensure windows are fully closed. Consider using an alarm system or immobiliser. Don't leave valuables in plain sight; store them in the boot or take them with you.
- Parking Location: Where possible, park in well-lit areas with pedestrian traffic. Avoid isolated or poorly lit spots.
- Vehicle Marking: Consider marking your vehicle's registration number with an etching tool on windows and valuable parts. This can deter thieves and make it harder to sell stolen parts.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or vehicles to the police. Even seemingly minor observations can be crucial.
- Community Watch: Engage with local community watch schemes. These initiatives often provide valuable crime prevention advice and a network of residents looking out for each other.
- Dash Cam: A dash cam can provide evidence in the event of an incident and may deter potential thieves.
While Lidlington’s crime rate is comparatively low, consistent vigilance and these preventative measures can help ensure the continued safety and security of residents and their vehicles.