Protecting your home from burglary is a priority for residents of Redhill. While Redhill (BUA - Reigate and Banstead) demonstrates a crime rate of 85.9 per 1,000 residents, which is slightly below the UK average of 91.6, and boasts a safety score of 80/100 (compared to a UK average of 79), property crime remains a concern. Specifically, the property crime rate stands at 24.6 per 1,000 residents.
Here are some specific burglary prevention tips tailored for Redhill residents, based on understanding the local context:
- Secure Doors and Windows: Ensure all exterior doors are solid and have robust locks. Consider upgrading to multi-point locking systems. Windows should have secure locks and, for ground-floor properties, consider security film to make them more difficult to break.
- Lighting: Install motion-sensor security lighting around your property, particularly near entrances and vulnerable areas. Well-lit areas deter potential burglars.
- Alarm Systems & Security Cameras: While not mandatory, installing an alarm system or security cameras can act as a strong deterrent. Even a visible sticker indicating an alarm system is present can be effective.
- Social Media Awareness: Be cautious about what you post on social media. Avoid advertising when you're away from home, as this can signal an opportunity to potential burglars. Delay posting vacation photos until you return.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Increased community vigilance is a powerful crime prevention tool. Sharing information and looking out for one another can significantly improve local safety.
- Mail & Deliveries: Arrange for mail and deliveries to be held or redirected when you're away. A build-up of mail is a clear sign that a property is unoccupied.
- Secure Valuables: Don't leave valuables in plain sight. Store them in a safe or a less obvious location. Consider marking valuable items with unique identifiers for recovery purposes.
- Maintain Landscaping: Overgrown bushes and trees can provide cover for burglars. Keep landscaping trimmed to improve visibility around your property.
By taking these steps, residents of Redhill can proactively reduce their risk of burglary and contribute to maintaining the area's relatively good safety score.