Sherborne, a town in Dorset, benefits from a comparatively good safety score of 88 out of 100, which is higher than the UK average of 79. However, understanding the local crime landscape and taking preventative measures is still essential for protecting your property. With a population of 12,064, Sherborne's crime rate currently stands at 54.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the UK average of 91.6. The property crime rate specifically is 15.7 per 1,000 residents.
While this indicates a generally safe environment, burglaries do occur. Here's how you can reduce your risk:
- Secure Your Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows are robust and have reliable locks. Consider upgrading to multi-point locking systems for enhanced security. Don’t leave keys visibly accessible.
- Invest in Security Lighting: Motion-sensor lights around your property can deter potential burglars. Strategically placed lighting illuminates dark areas, making it more difficult for criminals to operate unnoticed.
- Consider an Alarm System: While not mandatory, an alarm system can act as a significant deterrent and alert you and the authorities to any suspicious activity. Even a sticker indicating an alarm system is in place can be beneficial.
- Don't Advertise Your Absence: Avoid posting about vacations or extended absences on social media. Ask a neighbour to collect mail and newspapers, and consider using timer switches for lights to create the illusion of occupancy.
- Join Neighbourhood Watch: Participating in or establishing a Neighbourhood Watch scheme fosters community spirit and provides a network for sharing information and concerns about local safety.
- Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items out of sight from windows and consider a safe for important documents and jewellery. Record serial numbers of valuable items and photograph their appearance for insurance purposes.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to suspicious individuals or vehicles in your neighbourhood and report anything unusual to the police.
By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your vulnerability to burglary and contribute to the overall safety and security of Sherborne.