Vehicle crime can be a frustrating and distressing experience. While Doddington and Wimblington, a built-up area in Fenland, benefit from a relatively good safety score of 82 out of 100 (compared to a UK average of 79), and a lower crime rate of 68.1 per 1,000 residents compared to the UK average of 91.6, preventative measures are still highly recommended.
Understanding the context is key. While the overall crime rate is lower, the property crime rate within Doddington and Wimblington stands at 15.3 per 1,000 residents. This suggests that opportunistic theft, including vehicle crime, remains a potential concern.
So, what steps can residents take? Here's a breakdown of practical advice:
- Remove Valuables: Never leave valuables in plain sight. This includes sat nav devices, phone chargers, and even loose change. Thieves often target vehicles based on the perceived value of their contents.
- Park Smart: Whenever possible, park in well-lit areas, preferably under CCTV coverage. This deters potential thieves and increases the chances of detection.
- Vehicle Security: Consider installing visible security devices such as an alarm system, steering wheel lock, or immobiliser. These act as deterrents, signalling to thieves that the vehicle is protected.
- Window Etching: Etching your vehicle registration number onto the windows can make stolen parts harder to sell on and deter thieves.
- Dash Cam: A dash cam can provide valuable evidence in the event of a crime and may also deter thieves.
- Be Vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police. Even seemingly minor observations can be valuable in preventing crime.
- Secure Your Keys: Never leave your keys in the ignition or in easy reach. This is a common mistake that makes vehicles easy targets.
By taking these simple yet effective steps, residents of Doddington and Wimblington can actively contribute to reducing the risk of vehicle crime and maintaining the area's relatively high safety score.