Concerned about burglary risks in Bedlington? You’re right to be. With a crime rate of 112.6 per 1,000 residents, Bedlington, Northumberland, experiences a higher crime rate than the UK average of 91.6. This means that on average, for every 1,000 people in Bedlington, approximately 112.6 crimes are reported. Further analysis reveals a property crime rate of 31.3 per 1,000 residents, highlighting a specific area of concern. While a safety score of 74/100 indicates a reasonable level of safety, it's lower than the UK average of 79, reinforcing the need for preventative measures.
So, what can you do? Here are some practical tips to help safeguard your home in Bedlington:
- Secure Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows have robust locks. Consider upgrading to British Standard (BS) locks for enhanced security. Don't leave keys easily accessible.
- Improve Lighting: Burglars prefer operating under the cover of darkness. Install motion-sensor lights around your property, particularly near entrances and pathways. Well-lit areas deter potential intruders.
- Consider a Security System: An alarm system, even a basic one, can act as a significant deterrent. Visible signage indicating the presence of an alarm can be particularly effective.
- Don't Advertise Your Absence: Avoid posting travel plans on social media. Ask a neighbour to collect mail and newspapers while you're away and set lights on timers to simulate occupancy.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Participate in or establish a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. A community-minded approach can significantly improve local safety by increasing vigilance and communication.
- Secure Valuables: Don't leave valuable items in plain sight. Consider a safe for important documents and jewellery.
- Trim Overgrown Vegetation: Overgrown bushes and hedges can provide cover for burglars. Keep them trimmed back to improve visibility around your property.
By taking these steps, you can actively reduce your vulnerability to burglary and contribute to a safer environment for yourself and your neighbours in Bedlington. Remember that these are preventative measures and should be considered alongside reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities.