Residents of Hastings can report crime and suspicious activity through several channels, depending on the urgency of the situation. The primary method for reporting non-emergency incidents is by calling 101, the non-emergency number for all UK police forces. This number should be used for reporting crimes that have already occurred, suspicious activity that isn't an immediate threat, or to provide information that might assist an ongoing investigation.
For emergencies – situations where a crime is in progress, someone is in danger, or a life is at risk – always dial 999. This connects you directly to the police emergency response team. It’s crucial to only use 999 for genuine emergencies to ensure that resources are available for those who need them most.
Understanding the context of Hastings’ safety is also important. With a population of 91,219, the area has a crime rate of 128.0 per 1,000 residents. This is higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. The safety score for Hastings is 71/100, which also falls below the UK average of 79/100. While this data indicates a potential need for increased vigilance, reporting suspicious activity plays a significant role in addressing these concerns.
Beyond phone calls, Sussex Police (who cover Hastings) also offers online reporting tools through their website. These are suitable for reporting less serious crimes, such as theft or vandalism, where there’s no immediate threat. The online system allows you to provide details and upload any relevant evidence, which can be helpful for the investigation.
When reporting, be prepared to provide as much detail as possible, including the location, time, description of the incident, and any individuals involved. Even seemingly minor observations can be valuable to the police in piecing together a picture and preventing further incidents. Remember that reporting suspicious activity is a civic responsibility and contributes to the overall safety and wellbeing of the Hastings community.