Vehicle crime can be a concern for any community, but Costessey, located in South Norfolk, demonstrates a relatively favourable safety profile. While a crime rate of 38.2 per 1,000 residents remains a figure to be addressed, it is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6. This suggests Costessey is a safer area overall, with a safety score of 91 out of 100, surpassing the national average of 79. However, proactive measures can still be taken to further reduce the risk of vehicle-related incidents.
Given the population of Costessey is 3172, it’s vital residents understand how to safeguard their possessions. While the property crime rate stands at 12.6 per 1,000, vehicle crime contributes to this overall figure. Here are some precautions Costessey residents can take:
- Always Lock Your Vehicle: This is the most basic, yet crucial, step. Ensure all doors and windows are locked, even when parked at home.
- Remove Valuables: Never leave valuables such as electronics, handbags, or wallets in plain sight. Store them in the boot or take them with you.
- Activate Your Vehicle Alarm: If your vehicle is equipped with an alarm, ensure it is activated whenever parked, particularly overnight or in less populated areas.
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in well-lit areas with pedestrian traffic. This deters potential thieves.
- Consider a Steering Wheel Lock: A visible deterrent like a steering wheel lock can discourage opportunistic thieves.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings when approaching and leaving your vehicle. Report any suspicious activity to the police.
- Vehicle Security Systems: Explore installing vehicle security systems, such as immobilisers or trackers, for added protection.
It's important to remember that even with these precautions, no system is entirely foolproof. However, taking these steps significantly reduces the likelihood of becoming a victim of vehicle crime and contributes to maintaining Costessey's generally high safety score.