Ashington, Northumberland, has a higher crime rate than the UK average, with a rate of 152.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 91.6. This, coupled with a safety score of 65 out of 100 (below the UK average of 79), suggests heightened risk. A significant portion of this crime relates to property crime, with a rate of 53.0 incidents per 1,000 residents. Therefore, taking preventative measures is particularly important for residents.
So, what can you do? Several steps can be taken to improve your home's security and deter potential burglars. Firstly, focus on physical security. Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, even when you’re at home. Consider upgrading to robust locks and window frames. Visible security measures can be a significant deterrent. Installing security lighting around your property, particularly near entrances and pathways, can make your home less appealing to criminals.
An alarm system is another effective deterrent. While the initial investment might seem significant, the peace of mind it provides and the potential to alert both you and the authorities to suspicious activity can be invaluable. Even a sticker indicating the presence of an alarm system can be effective.
Beyond physical measures, community engagement is key. Get to know your neighbours and establish a neighbourhood watch scheme if one doesn’t already exist. Neighbours looking out for each other can be a powerful deterrent. Report any suspicious activity to the police promptly. Finally, don’t advertise your absence. Avoid posting on social media about holidays or trips, as this can alert potential burglars to the fact that your home is unoccupied.