While East Staffordshire has a crime rate of 75.0 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the UK average of 91.6, property crime remains a concern with a rate of 20.4 per 1,000. Understanding the landscape and taking proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk of burglary. Here's what residents can do to protect their homes:
Securing Your Property: The first line of defence is ensuring your home is physically secure. Regularly check that all doors and windows are locked, even when you're at home. Consider upgrading to more robust locks, particularly on vulnerable entry points. Many burglaries occur during daylight hours, so don’t leave keys visibly accessible.
Lighting and Visibility: Burglars are often deterred by visible security measures. Install motion-sensor lighting around your property, particularly near entrances and pathways. Keep shrubs and bushes trimmed back to eliminate potential hiding places. A well-lit property is less appealing to opportunistic thieves.
Alarm Systems and Technology: While not essential, an alarm system can provide a significant deterrent and alert you and the authorities to any suspicious activity. There are various options available, from monitored systems to self-monitored devices. Smart home technology, such as security cameras and smart locks, can also enhance your home's security.
Community Awareness & Neighbourhood Watch: East Staffordshire benefits from a safety score of 81/100, indicating a relatively safe environment. Engage with your local neighbourhood watch scheme if one exists. Knowing your neighbours and being aware of suspicious activity in your area can be invaluable. Sharing information and looking out for each other can create a safer community.
Valuables and Appearances: Avoid displaying valuable items in plain sight. Consider keeping expensive jewellery and electronics out of view. Don't advertise your absence on social media, as this can signal to potential burglars that your home is unoccupied. Ensure that your home looks occupied even when you are away, for example, by using timer switches for lights.