Criminal damage is a concern for many residents of Bilsthorpe, and it's understandable to want to take steps to protect your property. While Bilsthorpe has a crime rate of 97.8 per 1,000 residents, slightly higher than the UK average of 91.6, the area maintains a safety score of 79/100, which is the same as the national average. This suggests a relatively stable safety profile. Here’s what residents can do to help prevent criminal damage:
Securing Your Property:
- Secure Valuables: Don't leave valuable items visible from windows or in easily accessible locations. Consider storing them out of sight.
- Reinforce Entry Points: Ensure doors and windows are properly locked and consider upgrading to more secure locks. Window and door alarms can also act as a deterrent.
- Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around your property, particularly in areas with limited visibility. Well-lit areas are less attractive to potential vandals.
Community Involvement & Reporting:
- Neighbourhood Watch: Consider joining or starting a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Increased community vigilance can significantly deter criminal activity. Sharing information and looking out for each other is crucial.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Promptly report any suspicious behaviour or individuals to the police. Even seemingly minor observations can be valuable.
- Community Engagement: Participate in local community events and initiatives. Building strong community bonds can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility, discouraging criminal damage.
Property Specific Measures:
- Marking Valuables: Consider marking valuable possessions with unique identifiers. This can make them harder to sell and easier to identify if stolen.
- CCTV: For businesses and homeowners with specific concerns, installing CCTV cameras can act as a deterrent and provide evidence if criminal damage occurs. Ensure you comply with all relevant data protection regulations.
While Bilsthorpe's safety score mirrors the national average, the slightly elevated crime rate warrants proactive preventative measures. By combining individual security measures with community engagement, residents can actively contribute to a safer and more secure environment within Bilsthorpe.