The question of how to prevent burglaries is a common concern for residents of Egham, Runnymede. While Egham demonstrates a slightly lower crime rate of 88.0 per 1,000 residents compared to the UK average of 91.6, it's still important to take proactive steps to protect your property. Understanding the risk is the first step – the property crime rate in Egham is 33.3 per 1,000, indicating that burglary and related offences are a factor.
Given Egham’s population of 26,589, even a small reduction in crime can significantly impact the community. Here's a breakdown of effective burglary prevention tips:
- Secure Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows have robust locks. Consider upgrading to British Standard (BS) locks for enhanced security. Double-glazing can also offer an added layer of protection.
- Visible Security Measures: Install visible security measures such as security cameras (even dummy cameras can be a deterrent) and burglar alarms. Clearly displaying these signals to potential burglars can make your property less attractive. A safety score of 81/100 suggests a generally secure environment, but visible security reinforces this perception.
- Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around your property, particularly near entrances. Well-lit areas discourage opportunistic burglars.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Participate in or establish a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Community vigilance is a powerful deterrent. Sharing information about suspicious activity can help prevent crime.
- Secure Valuables: Don't leave valuables in plain sight. Consider a safe for jewellery, documents, and other items of high value. Marking valuables can also deter thieves and aid in recovery.
- Social Media Awareness: Be mindful of what you share on social media. Avoid advertising your absence from home, as this can be a signal to potential burglars.
- Home Security Systems: Consider a professionally monitored home security system for comprehensive protection. These systems offer an added layer of security and can alert authorities in the event of a break-in.
By implementing these practical steps, Egham residents can significantly reduce their risk of burglary and contribute to a safer community. Remember that prevention is always better than cure.