The question of how to prevent burglaries in Church is understandably a priority for residents. Church, within the Hyndburn borough, currently has a crime rate of 153.9 per 1,000 residents, significantly higher than the UK average of 91.6. This elevated rate, combined with a safety score of 65 out of 100 (compared to a UK average of 79), highlights the need for proactive preventative measures. Furthermore, the property crime rate specifically stands at 40.7 per 1,000 residents, indicating a notable risk to homes and belongings.
So, what can be done? Several steps can be taken to mitigate the risk of burglary. Firstly, enhancing your home’s physical security is crucial. This includes ensuring all doors and windows are securely locked, even when you're at home. Consider upgrading to robust locks and window frames. Installing an alarm system, even a basic one, can act as a significant deterrent. Security lighting, particularly motion-sensor lights, can illuminate potential hiding places and make your property less attractive to burglars.
Beyond physical security, being mindful of your surroundings and community engagement is key. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and be cautious about who you let into your property. Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, which fosters community vigilance and information sharing. Reporting suspicious activity to the police is also vital. While the data provided doesn’t specify time periods of crime fluctuations, maintaining awareness and being proactive are important regardless of the time.
Finally, remember that burglars often target homes that appear unoccupied. Making your home look lived-in, even when you’re away, can deter potential intruders. This can be achieved through things like timer-controlled lights, asking a neighbour to collect mail, and ensuring that curtains or blinds are not permanently closed.