The question of how residents of Castleside can prevent criminal damage is a valid one, and thankfully, the area presents a positive picture regarding safety. With a population of 1632, Castleside in County Durham currently has a crime rate of 38.0 per 1,000 people. This is notably lower than the UK average, which stands at 91.6 per 1,000. Furthermore, Castleside’s safety score is an impressive 91 out of 100, well above the UK average of 79.
While the overall picture is reassuring, preventing criminal damage requires ongoing effort and community involvement. Here's how residents can contribute:
- Increased Vigilance: Being aware of your surroundings and reporting any suspicious activity to the local authorities is crucial. This includes unusual vehicles, people loitering, or signs of attempted break-ins.
- Property Security: Ensuring that homes and businesses are adequately secured is a primary deterrent. This includes sturdy locks on doors and windows, security lighting, and potentially, CCTV systems. Consider marking valuable items with identifying information.
- Community Engagement: Participating in local community watch schemes or neighbourhood groups can foster a sense of collective responsibility and improve communication between residents and the police. Sharing information and looking out for one another is a powerful preventative measure.
- Reporting Damage: Promptly reporting any instances of criminal damage, however minor, helps police track trends and allocate resources effectively. It also prevents what might seem like minor incidents from escalating.
- Maintain Public Spaces: Keeping public areas tidy and well-maintained can discourage vandalism. Report any graffiti or damage to local council.
While the current crime rate is low compared to the UK average, complacency should be avoided. Maintaining Castleside's high safety score requires a proactive and collaborative approach from all residents.