If you notice something that feels wrong or unusual in East Hertfordshire, it’s important to report it. The best course of action depends on the severity of the situation.
For immediate dangers or crimes in progress: Call 999 immediately. This is for situations requiring urgent police attention, such as a burglary happening now or a violent altercation.
For non-emergency situations or suspicious activity: Call 101. This is the non-emergency number for the police and should be used for reporting crimes that have already occurred, or for concerns about ongoing suspicious behaviour. Examples include noticing unusual activity around a neighbour's house, or a vehicle repeatedly circling a street.
Reporting Online: You can also report suspicious activity online via the Hertfordshire Constabulary website: https://www.hertfordshire.police.uk/. This is a convenient option for less urgent matters.
Understanding East Hertfordshire's Safety: East Hertfordshire, with a population of 156,875, generally enjoys a good level of safety. The crime rate stands at 66.7 per 1,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6. This translates to a safety score of 85/100, exceeding the UK average of 79. However, this doesn’t mean crime doesn’t occur, and reporting suspicious activity remains crucial.
What Information to Provide: When reporting, be prepared to provide as much detail as possible. This includes:
- What you saw or heard.
- When and where the incident occurred.
- A description of any people or vehicles involved.
- Your name and contact details (although you can remain anonymous if you prefer, though this may limit follow-up).
Remember, even if you’re unsure whether something is suspicious, it’s always better to report it. The police can investigate and determine if any further action is needed.