Criminal damage can be a distressing experience for any homeowner. For Keele residents, understanding the local context and taking preventative measures is crucial. Keele, located in Newcastle-under-Lyme, has a population of 3114 and a crime rate of 54.6 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safe environment. However, vigilance is still essential.
While Keele’s safety score stands at a respectable 87 out of 100 – higher than the UK average of 79 – criminal damage can still occur. Preventing it often involves a combination of physical security measures and community awareness. Here’s what Keele residents can do:
- Secure Your Property: Ensure all doors and windows are locked, even when you’re at home. Consider installing robust locks and window reinforcements, particularly on ground-floor properties.
- Improve Lighting: Well-lit areas deter potential offenders. Install motion-sensor lights around your property, especially near entrances and vulnerable areas like gardens and sheds.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Participate in or consider forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Increased community vigilance can be a powerful deterrent. Sharing information about suspicious activity helps police and neighbours alike.
- CCTV and Security Systems: While not always necessary, CCTV cameras and alarm systems can act as a deterrent and provide evidence if damage occurs. Ensure any systems are properly maintained and signage is visible.
- Secure Valuables: Don't leave valuable items visible from windows or in easily accessible locations. Consider marking valuable possessions to deter theft and aid in recovery if stolen.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you see anything suspicious, report it to the police. Even seemingly minor incidents can be linked to larger criminal patterns. Remember, a lower crime rate like Keele's doesn't mean crime is absent – it means vigilance is important.
Understanding Keele’s crime rate, relative to the UK average, is a good starting point. The higher safety score is encouraging, but proactive measures remain vital for ensuring the continued safety and security of Keele residents and their properties.