The question of how to prevent burglaries in Seaham is a valid concern for residents. While Seaham, a BUA in County Durham with a population of 26,653, exhibits a crime rate of 89.5 per 1,000 residents – slightly lower than the UK average of 91.6 – it's still important to take preventative measures to safeguard your property. Understanding the context of this data is key.
Seaham’s safety score of 81/100 is also above the UK average of 79, suggesting a generally safe environment. However, the property crime rate specifically, standing at 34.1 per 1,000, highlights a potential area of concern. This figure indicates the frequency of crimes targeting property, making preventative action particularly important.
So, what can you do? Here's a breakdown of practical steps:
- Secure Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows are robust and properly locked, even when you’re at home. Consider upgrading to anti-snap locks on doors, which are increasingly common targets for burglars.
- Lighting: Install motion-sensor lighting around your property, particularly near entrances and pathways. This deters potential intruders and alerts you to activity.
- Visible Security: Displaying security signage (even dummy cameras) can act as a deterrent. Consider a monitored alarm system for added protection.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Engage with or consider forming a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme. This fosters community vigilance and provides a network for sharing information and concerns.
- Valuable Items: Don't leave valuable items in plain sight. Store them in a safe or secure location. Consider marking valuable items with identifying details to deter theft and aid recovery.
- Social Media Awareness: Be mindful of what you share on social media. Avoid posting details about your travel plans, as this can alert potential burglars that your home is unoccupied.
- Secure Mail & Deliveries: Don’t let mail pile up, as this is a clear sign that nobody is home. Arrange for deliveries to be held or redirected when you're away.