While Great Doddington enjoys a safety score of 87 out of 100, it's still important to take proactive steps to protect your property. Understanding the local context is crucial – the village, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in North Northamptonshire with a population of 1798, currently has a crime rate of 51.7 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safe environment. However, the property crime rate sits at 8.9 per 1,000, indicating that burglaries do occur.
So, what can you do to minimise your risk? Here are some specific tips tailored for residents of Great Doddington:
- Secure Entry Points: Always ensure doors and windows are locked, even when you’re home. Consider upgrading to more robust locks.
- Lighting: Burglars often operate under the cover of darkness. Use exterior lighting, especially around vulnerable areas like back gardens and sheds. Timers can automate lights to give the impression someone is home, particularly useful if you’re away.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Joining or establishing a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in Great Doddington is a powerful deterrent. Increased community vigilance can significantly reduce crime rates.
- Security Systems: While not essential, a visible security system (alarms, CCTV) can deter potential burglars. Even a simple sticker indicating the presence of an alarm can be effective.
- Valuable Items: Don't leave valuable items in plain sight. Consider a safe for jewellery, documents, and other small, high-value possessions.
- Social Media Awareness: Be mindful of what you share on social media. Avoid posting about upcoming holidays or absences, as this can signal an empty property.
- Mail and Deliveries: Arrange for mail and deliveries to be collected when you're away, or redirect them to a trusted neighbour.
- Landscaping: Overgrown bushes and hedges can provide cover for burglars. Keep them trimmed to improve visibility around your property.