Vehicle crime is a concern for residents of Bilsthorpe, Newark and Sherwood. While Bilsthorpe maintains a safety score of 79 out of 100 – matching the UK average – its crime rate stands at 97.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, slightly above the national average of 91.6. This means taking proactive steps to protect your vehicle is particularly important.
Understanding the context is key. Bilsthorpe has a population of 3916, and the property crime rate is 24.3 per 1,000 residents. This doesn't directly isolate vehicle crime, but highlights a broader property crime risk. While specific vehicle crime statistics for Bilsthorpe are not provided, general preventative measures are applicable regardless.
So, what can residents do? Several steps can significantly reduce the risk of vehicle theft or damage. Firstly, always lock your vehicle, even when parked at home. Don't leave valuables visible inside – this is a significant draw for opportunistic thieves. Consider installing a car alarm or immobiliser; these act as deterrents. A steering lock is another relatively inexpensive option that can make your vehicle less appealing.
Parking strategically is also important. Whenever possible, park in well-lit and populated areas. This increases visibility and reduces the likelihood of a crime occurring unnoticed. Regularly inspect your vehicle for any signs of damage or attempted entry. Reporting any suspicious activity, even seemingly minor incidents, to the police can help them identify patterns and prevent further crime. Remember, collective vigilance contributes to a safer environment for the whole community of Bilsthorpe. Finally, consider marking valuable car parts with a unique identifier – this makes them harder to sell on and can deter thieves.