The question of what preventative measures local businesses in Eastry can take to reduce crime is a vital one. While Eastry, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Dover, benefits from a commendable safety score of 87 out of 100 – higher than the UK average of 79 – its crime rate of 50.9 incidents per 1,000 residents remains higher than the national average of 91.6. This indicates room for improvement in crime prevention. Given the population of 1809, even a small reduction in crime can significantly impact the community.
Several steps can be taken. Firstly, bolstering physical security is essential. This includes installing visible CCTV cameras, particularly in areas with limited foot traffic or known vulnerabilities. Adequate exterior lighting is also a significant deterrent, especially during the darker months. Businesses should ensure their premises are properly secured overnight, including robust locks on doors and windows, and consider alarm systems.
Beyond physical measures, fostering a strong community partnership is crucial. Encouraging businesses to participate in neighbourhood watch schemes or collaborate with local police initiatives can enhance vigilance and information sharing. Promptly reporting suspicious activity, no matter how minor it may seem, is vital. Businesses should also educate staff on crime prevention techniques and emergency procedures.
Furthermore, businesses can consider implementing security audits to identify potential vulnerabilities and tailor preventative measures accordingly. Reviewing existing security protocols regularly and updating them to reflect changing circumstances is also important. While the safety score of 87/100 is positive, it’s important to acknowledge the crime rate remains higher than the UK average and requires continuous attention and proactive steps to ensure Eastry remains a safe and thriving community for both residents and businesses.