If you notice something suspicious in Heighington, it's important to report it promptly to the authorities. The best way to do this depends on the nature of the activity, but the primary method is to contact the police.
Heighington, a built-up area (BUA) in Darlington, has a population of 1546. Its crime rate stands at 31.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a relatively safe environment. Furthermore, Heighington boasts a safety score of 92 out of 100, significantly higher than the UK average of 79, demonstrating a perception of safety within the area. However, vigilance remains crucial.
How to Report Suspicious Activity:
- Non-Emergency Situations: For activity that doesn’t pose an immediate threat, you can contact the non-emergency police number, 101. This is suitable for things like loitering, unusual vehicle activity, or observing someone behaving strangely.
- Emergency Situations: If the activity is ongoing and poses a direct and immediate threat to life or property (e.g., a burglary in progress, a fight), call 999 immediately.
What to Report: Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible. This includes:
- Description of the person(s) involved: Include details like age, gender, clothing, and any distinguishing features.
- Description of any vehicles involved: Note the make, model, colour, and registration number if possible.
- Location of the activity: Be specific about the street, building, or area where you observed the suspicious behaviour.
- Time and date: Accurate timing is crucial for investigations.
- What specifically made you feel suspicious: Explain why the activity seemed out of place or concerning.
Remember, it's always better to report something that turns out to be nothing than to ignore something that could be a serious crime. Your observations, combined with the police's investigations, contribute to maintaining Heighington’s commendable safety score and ensuring the well-being of the community.