If you need to report a crime in Stevenage, there are several ways to contact the local police. The appropriate method depends on the urgency of the situation.
For Emergencies (999): Call 999 immediately if a crime is in progress, someone is in danger, or there is a threat of immediate harm. This includes incidents like burglaries in progress, assaults, or witnessing a serious road traffic accident.
For Non-Emergencies (101): Call 101 to report crimes that are not happening immediately, such as theft, vandalism, or a previous break-in. It’s also suitable for reporting suspicious activity and obtaining non-emergency police advice.
Online Reporting: For certain crimes, you may be able to report them online through the Hertfordshire Constabulary website. This is a convenient option for less serious incidents. Check the Hertfordshire Police website for details and eligibility.
Understanding Stevenage's Crime Context: It's helpful to understand the broader picture. Stevenage, with a population of 91,774, has a crime rate of 110.8 per 1,000 residents. This is higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. The area's safety score is 74/100, which is below the UK average of 79/100. While these statistics provide context, they don’t dictate individual experiences.
What Information to Have Ready: When reporting a crime, be prepared to provide as much detail as possible. This includes:
- What happened
- When it happened
- Where it happened
- Who was involved
- Any descriptions of people or vehicles involved
- Any property that was stolen or damaged
Contacting Hertfordshire Police Directly: While 999 and 101 are the primary contact methods, you can also find more information and contact details on the Hertfordshire Constabulary website (www.hertfordshire.police.uk). This website also provides details on reporting other issues to the police, such as antisocial behaviour.
Remember to remain calm and factual when reporting a crime. The police will assess the information and take appropriate action.