Penzance, a town within Cornwall, unfortunately experiences a higher crime rate than the UK average. The crime rate in Penzance is 135.4 per 1,000 residents, while the national average sits at 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that homeowners in Penzance should be particularly proactive in safeguarding their properties. The property crime rate in Penzance is 39.7 per 1,000, demonstrating that burglaries are a contributing factor to this higher overall crime rate. With a safety score of 69/100, which is below the UK average of 79, it’s important to understand the specific steps you can take to improve your home's security.
Here are some measures homeowners in Penzance can implement to reduce their risk of burglary:
- Secure Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows have robust locks. Consider upgrading to British Standard (BS) 3621 locks for added security. Don’t forget garage doors and sheds, which are often overlooked.
- Visible Security Systems: A visible security system, such as an alarm or CCTV cameras, can act as a significant deterrent. Even dummy cameras can offer some level of protection.
- Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around your property, particularly near entrances and vulnerable areas. Good lighting makes it more difficult for burglars to operate unnoticed.
- Neighbourly Vigilance: Get to know your neighbours and establish a neighbourhood watch scheme. A strong community network is a powerful deterrent and can facilitate the reporting of suspicious activity.
- Property Marking: Consider marking valuable items with an identifying mark. This makes them less attractive to thieves and easier to identify if stolen.
- Secure Valuables: Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. Store them in a safe or secure location.
- Social Media Awareness: Be mindful of what you share on social media. Avoid posting details about holidays or absences that could signal an empty property.
- Home Insurance: Ensure you have adequate home insurance to cover potential losses in the event of a burglary.