Residents of Whitehill (County Durham) can take several steps to help prevent property crime. While Whitehill has a population of 1891, its crime rate sits at 106.8 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average of 91.6. This suggests a heightened risk compared to the national average. Specifically, the property crime rate in Whitehill is 26.5 per 1,000 residents. Understanding the context of these figures is the first step in taking preventative action.
Home Security Measures:
- Secure Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows have robust locks. Consider upgrading to deadbolt locks for added security. Window locks, even simple ones, can deter opportunistic thieves.
- Visible Security Systems: A visible security system, even if it's a dummy alarm, can act as a deterrent. Signs indicating the presence of an alarm system can discourage potential criminals.
- Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around your property, particularly near entrances and vulnerable areas. Well-lit areas reduce the opportunity for crime.
- Secure Valuables: Don’t leave valuable items in plain sight. Store them in secure locations, such as a safe or a locked drawer.
Community Involvement:
- Neighbourhood Watch: Joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme can foster a sense of community and vigilance. Sharing information and looking out for one another can be very effective.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you see anything suspicious, report it to the police. Even seemingly minor incidents can be valuable in identifying patterns and preventing further crime.
Understanding Safety Scores: Whitehill's safety score is 74/100, which is below the UK average of 79. This lower score reflects the higher crime rate observed. While this isn’t a definitive measure of safety, it reinforces the importance of taking preventative measures. It's essential to remember that statistics represent overall trends and individual experiences can vary.
By implementing these measures and staying aware of your surroundings, residents of Whitehill can contribute to creating a safer environment for themselves and their neighbours.