While Friday Bridge, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Fenland, demonstrates a safety score of 81/100 – above the UK average of 79 – vehicle crime remains a concern. The overall crime rate in Friday Bridge stands at 68.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the UK average of 91.6. However, taking proactive steps can further reduce the risk.
Understanding the context is important. Friday Bridge has a population of 1506, meaning crime rates can be influenced by smaller fluctuations in incidents. Although the overall crime rate is lower than the national average, the property crime rate is 17.2 per 1,000 residents. Vehicle crime often falls under the umbrella of property crime, highlighting a need for increased vigilance.
So, what can residents do? Here are several steps to consider:
- Lock Your Vehicle: This seems obvious, but ensure all doors and windows are properly locked, even when parked at home. Don’t leave spare keys inside the vehicle.
- Remove Valuables: Never leave valuables, such as electronics, bags, or tools, in plain sight. Even seemingly insignificant items can attract thieves. Store them in the boot before reaching your destination, or ideally, take them with you.
- Consider Security Devices: Vehicle alarms and tracking devices can deter thieves and assist in recovery if a vehicle is stolen. Modern tracking devices often offer GPS location and real-time alerts.
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a well-lit and visible area. This makes it more difficult for thieves to operate unnoticed.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice anything suspicious, such as someone loitering near vehicles or attempting to tamper with locks, report it to the police immediately. Even seemingly minor incidents can be valuable intelligence.
- Vehicle Marking: Consider marking vehicle parts with a unique identifier. This can deter thieves and make stolen parts more difficult to sell.
- Community Watch: Participating in or forming a local community watch group can enhance vigilance and communication within the area.