The question of safety precautions when out in Hersham at night is a valid one, particularly when considering the available data. Hersham, located in the BUA of Elmbridge, has a population of 14,003. While the overall safety score for Hersham is a respectable 88 out of 100, a significantly lower night safety score of 12 out of 100 warrants specific attention. This suggests that the perceived and actual risk levels increase considerably after sunset.
Comparing Hersham's crime rate to the UK average is also instructive. The overall crime rate in Hersham stands at 51.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average of 91.6. This means that, proportionally, there are fewer crimes per resident in Hersham than the national average. However, the violent crime rate of 22.5 per 1,000 residents is also above the national average. It's important to note that these are overall figures and do not necessarily reflect isolated incidents within Hersham.
Given the lower night safety score, certain precautions are strongly recommended. Firstly, be acutely aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas, and stick to routes that are well-populated and visible. Planning your route in advance and informing someone of your plans is always a good practice. Consider travelling with a friend or family member, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. While the data doesn't specify particular hotspots, it is prudent to avoid secluded areas and shortcuts, particularly after dark. The data provided does not indicate specific crime types prevalent at night, so general vigilance is key. The lower night safety score is a clear indicator that enhanced personal safety measures are advisable when out after dark.