Reporting a crime in Barnard Castle, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 4584 in County Durham, is a process that should be approached with understanding of the different channels available. The best way to report a crime depends on the urgency and nature of the incident.
For Immediate Danger: Call 999 If a crime is in progress, or someone is in immediate danger, dial 999. This includes situations like a burglary in progress, an assault, or any other emergency requiring an immediate police response.
Non-Emergency Situations: Call 101 For non-urgent incidents, such as theft that has already occurred, criminal damage, or to report suspicious activity, you should call 101. This is the non-emergency number for the police in England and Wales. While not as immediate as 999, 101 allows you to report matters that require police attention but don't pose an immediate threat.
Online Reporting Durham Constabulary provides an online reporting service for certain crimes. This can be a convenient option for reporting less serious incidents, such as some cases of theft or criminal damage where no one is injured. Check the Durham Constabulary website (https://www.durham.police.uk/) to see if your crime is eligible for online reporting.
Contextualising Crime Rates in Barnard Castle Barnard Castle's crime rate currently stands at 67.8 crimes per 1,000 residents. This is lower than the UK average of 91.6 crimes per 1,000 residents, suggesting a relatively safer environment. The area also boasts a safety score of 85/100, which is above the UK average of 79. Despite these positive indicators, it remains important to report any criminal activity to help maintain the safety and security of the community.
Important Considerations
- Keep a Record: Always obtain a crime reference number when reporting a crime. This number is crucial for any follow-up inquiries.
- Provide Details: When reporting, provide as much detail as possible, including the time, location, and description of the incident and any individuals involved.
- Online Reporting Limitations: Be aware that online reporting may not be suitable for all types of crimes. If you are unsure, it's always best to call 101.