Dawlish Crime Rate

Dawlish's crime rate of 85.9 per 1,000 residents is 5.9% below the UK average, but the area faces challenges with violence and sexual offences, which are 24% higher than the national average. This discrepancy highlights the need for targeted safety measures in specific crime categories while overall conditions remain relatively secure.

Dawlish is a built-up area in Teignbridge, known for its coastal location and mix of residential and commercial properties. Its proximity to the coast and commuter routes may influence crime patterns, with retail activity and nightlife contributing to certain crime types. The area's moderate population density and socioeconomic diversity likely play roles in shaping its crime profile.

The most surprising finding in Dawlish's crime data is the 24% increase in violence and sexual offences compared to the UK average, despite the area's overall crime rate being below the national average. This may be linked to local factors such as the presence of pubs and social venues, which could contribute to late-night incidents. Anti-social behaviour, though 13% below the UK average, remains a notable category, possibly reflecting the area's community dynamics. Criminal damage and arson, while 12% above the UK average, have shown a 18.5% annual decline, suggesting targeted interventions may be effective. Shoplifting, which has risen by 53.7% YoY but remains 8% below the UK average, may be influenced by local retail hubs. The sharp 100% increase in robbery is concerning and requires further investigation, though the low overall rate suggests it remains a rare occurrence.

Crime in Dawlish has remained stable (-0.5% YoY) over the past year, but several categories have shown significant shifts. Robbery has increased by 100% YoY, a stark rise that requires urgent attention. Shoplifting and bicycle theft have also risen by 53.7% and 50.0% respectively, though both remain below the UK average. Conversely, anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime have decreased by 22.4% and 21.7% YoY, suggesting successful interventions in these areas. The monthly trend shows a peak in July (10.7 per 1,000/month), likely influenced by increased tourism and outdoor activity during the summer months.

How To Keep Safe in Dawlish

Residents should avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night, especially given the 18.5% annual decline in criminal damage and arson, which may indicate reduced but still present risks. Use well-lit routes when returning home after late-night social events, as violence and sexual offences are 24% above the UK average. Report suspicious activity promptly, and consider installing security measures such as motion-sensor lighting to deter potential intruders.

Crime in Dawlish exhibits distinct patterns throughout the day and week. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), likely linked to retail activity and commuter traffic. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am-6am), possibly due to isolated parking areas or reduced street lighting. Burglary is most common during the night, aligning with opportunities for opportunistic break-ins. Other crimes, such as criminal damage and arson, are more prevalent in the evening, reflecting social gatherings or increased outdoor activity. Weekends, particularly Saturdays, see heightened activity, with theft and vehicle crime rising compared to weekdays.

Dawlish's crime rate is 289% higher than Holcombe (Teignbridge)'s 22.1 per 1,000, making it the least safe of the compared areas. Starcross, with a rate of 48.0 per 1,000, is 79% safer than Dawlish, likely due to its smaller population and lower economic activity. Dawlish Warren, at 71.6 per 1,000, is 20% less safe than Dawlish, reflecting differences in urban density and socioeconomic factors.

For Dawlish residents, scOS's proactive boundary detection and vehicle registration verification are particularly relevant. With vehicle crime at 1.5 per 1,000 (68% below the UK average), scOS's DVLA checks could deter opportunistic theft. The rising robbery rate (up 100% YoY) suggests the need for real-time deterrence features like automated lighting and speaker alerts, which scOS provides. Its ability to distinguish between household members and intruders reduces false alarms, offering peace of mind in an area with elevated violence and sexual offence rates.