The question of how to prevent burglaries in St Merryn, Cornwall, is a valid concern for any homeowner. Fortunately, St Merryn presents a relatively safe environment compared to the national average. With a population of 1584, the area has a crime rate of 40.4 per 1,000 residents, considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This translates to a safety score of 88/100, again exceeding the UK average of 79. However, it’s still vital to take proactive steps to secure your property.
While the overall crime rate is reassuring, the property crime rate in St Merryn stands at 13.3 per 1,000, indicating that burglaries do occur. Therefore, preventative measures are essential. These can be broken down into several categories:
- Physical Security: Ensure your doors and windows are robust and properly secured. Consider installing mortise locks on doors and window locks on all accessible windows. External lighting, particularly dusk-to-dawn lights, can deter potential burglars.
- Security Systems: Modern security systems, including alarms and CCTV cameras, provide a visible deterrent and can alert you and the authorities to suspicious activity. While not mandatory, they can significantly increase your property’s security.
- Community Engagement: Knowing your neighbours and looking out for each other can be a powerful deterrent. A neighbourhood watch scheme, if available, is a fantastic way to foster community spirit and enhance security.
- Property Marking: Marking valuable items can deter thieves and make it easier to recover stolen goods.
- Be Mindful of Appearances: Ensure your property doesn't appear unoccupied. This includes arranging for mail collection when you're away and asking a neighbour to occasionally check on your home.
It's important to remember that even with the lower crime rate in St Merryn, no area is entirely immune to crime. Taking a layered approach to security, combining physical measures, technology, and community involvement, is the most effective way to protect your property and enjoy peace of mind.