Lympstone, a village in East Devon, demonstrates an exceptionally low crime rate compared to the national average. With a population of 1847, the overall crime rate stands at 22.2 incidents per 1,000 people, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6. This translates to a high safety score of 94 out of 100, well above the UK average of 79. While property crime is a factor, the rate is also comparatively low, registering at 5.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This indicates a generally secure environment for Lympstone's community.
Given this positive baseline, residents can proactively take steps to further minimise the risk of property crime. These steps are not necessarily responses to a significant threat, but rather contribute to maintaining the existing high level of safety.
Here are some practical measures:
- Secure your property: Ensure all doors and windows are locked, even when at home. Consider installing security lighting, particularly around vulnerable areas like pathways and rear gardens. An alarm system, while not essential given the low crime rate, can provide an added layer of security.
- Be a vigilant neighbour: Get to know your neighbours and look out for one another. Reporting suspicious activity, however minor it may seem, to the police is crucial. A watchful community can deter potential offenders.
- Mark your valuables: Marking valuable items with identifying details can make them less attractive to thieves and easier to recover if stolen.
- Consider a Neighbourhood Watch scheme: While Lympstone may not currently have one, residents could explore the possibility of establishing a Neighbourhood Watch to further strengthen community vigilance and communication.
- Don't leave valuables in plain sight: Avoid leaving valuable items visible from windows or in easily accessible locations.
The low property crime rate of 5.4 per 1,000 residents demonstrates that Lympstone is already a relatively safe place. However, consistent preventative measures and community awareness remain vital to preserving this security and ensuring the continued wellbeing of all residents.