If you see suspicious activity in the New Forest, the most important thing to do is report it to the police. While the New Forest boasts a relatively low crime rate of 60.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the UK average of 91.6, it’s still crucial to be aware and proactive. The area is home to 176,116 people and enjoys a safety score of 85/100, exceeding the UK average of 79, indicating a generally safe environment.
What constitutes 'suspicious activity' can vary, but generally includes anything that seems out of place or unusual. This could be a person loitering without an obvious purpose, unusual vehicle activity, or any behaviour that makes you feel uneasy. Trust your instincts – if something doesn't feel right, it's worth reporting.
When reporting suspicious activity, providing as much detail as possible is vital. This includes:
- Location: Be precise about where you saw the activity. Landmark descriptions are helpful.
- Description: Note the appearance of any individuals involved (age, gender, clothing). Vehicle details (make, model, colour, registration number) are also important.
- Time: Record the date and time you observed the activity.
- Nature of the Activity: Clearly explain what you saw that raised your suspicions.
You can report suspicious activity to the police in several ways:
- Call 999: If a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger, call 999 immediately.
- Call 101: For non-emergency situations, call 101.
- Online Reporting: Many police forces allow you to report suspicious activity online through their websites.
- Local Neighbourhood Watch: If there's a Neighbourhood Watch scheme operating in your area, you can also report your concerns to them.
Remember, reporting suspicious activity doesn't necessarily mean a crime has been committed. It simply allows the police to investigate and potentially prevent a crime from happening. Your vigilance contributes to the overall safety and security of the New Forest community.