The question of where the high-risk areas are for vehicle crime in South Molton is a valid concern for residents. Examining the available data, we can understand the context of safety within this North Devon town. South Molton, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 6136, presents a crime rate of 71.4 incidents per 1,000 people. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment than many other areas in the country.
However, it’s important to consider the specific types of crime. While the overall crime rate is lower, the property crime rate in South Molton stands at 19.7 per 1,000 people. Vehicle crime falls under the umbrella of property crime, meaning it's a contributing factor to this statistic. While specific areas within South Molton experiencing higher vehicle crime incidents aren't detailed in the data, the property crime rate itself indicates a potential vulnerability.
South Molton's safety score of 82/100 is also above the UK average of 79/100. This score suggests a reasonable level of safety, but doesn't eliminate the risk of vehicle crime. It’s important to remember that crime rates are averages; localised hotspots can still exist. The data doesn't pinpoint specific streets or neighbourhoods within South Molton with disproportionately higher vehicle crime. Therefore, a proactive approach to vehicle security is recommended throughout the area.
To mitigate risk, residents should prioritise robust vehicle security measures, including ensuring vehicles are locked, alarms are activated, and valuables are not left in plain sight. Reporting any suspicious activity to the local authorities is also essential for maintaining community safety and helping police identify potential crime trends.