Vehicle crime can be a concern for residents of any area. While Brandon (County Durham), with a population of 10,739, has a crime rate of 86.1 per 1,000 residents, which is slightly below the UK average of 91.6, it's still important to take preventative measures. Understanding the context of this data is key – a safety score of 80/100 indicates a generally safe area, but vigilance is always recommended.
While the overall crime rate is comparable to the national average, the property crime rate in Brandon is 23.0 per 1,000, which is a specific area to consider when addressing vehicle security. This suggests that opportunistic theft, including vehicle crime, is a potential risk.
So, what can you do to prevent vehicle crime in Brandon? Here's a breakdown of practical steps:
- Vehicle Security Systems: Consider installing an alarm system or immobiliser. While not foolproof, these devices can act as a deterrent to potential thieves. Ensure any existing alarms are functioning correctly.
- Visible Deterrents: Stickers indicating the presence of an alarm system can deter criminals. A steering wheel lock is another highly visible deterrent that can make your vehicle a less attractive target.
- Parking Location: Where possible, park in well-lit areas, preferably where there is CCTV coverage. Avoid leaving vehicles in secluded or poorly lit spots, particularly overnight.
- Secure Valuables: Never leave valuables in plain sight within your vehicle. Even seemingly insignificant items can attract thieves. Remove all visible belongings, including sat nav devices and charging cables.
- Vehicle Marking: Consider marking your vehicle's components (e.g., catalytic converter, stereo) with a unique identifier. This can make them more difficult to sell on and less appealing to thieves.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice any suspicious behaviour in the Brandon area, report it to the police. Early reporting can help prevent further incidents.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any local crime alerts or warnings issued by the police. This will allow you to be aware of any specific trends or areas of concern within Brandon.