The question of how best to prevent burglaries in Horsmonden is a valid one for any homeowner. Fortunately, Horsmonden, located within the Tunbridge Wells area, demonstrates a generally positive safety profile. Considering its population of 1747, the overall crime rate stands at 32.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a relatively safe environment. The area also boasts a safety score of 93 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, further indicating a higher level of perceived safety.
While the overall crime rate is reassuring, the property crime rate of 8.6 per 1,000 residents highlights the importance of preventative measures. Burglaries, which fall under property crime, can still occur. Therefore, focusing on practical steps to deter potential offenders is prudent.
Here's what you can do to minimise your risk:
- Secure Entry Points: Always ensure all doors and windows are locked, even when you're at home. Consider upgrading to more robust locks.
- Exterior Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around your property. This deters burglars by highlighting their presence and making them feel exposed.
- Visibility: Trim bushes and hedges near windows and doors to eliminate potential hiding places.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Participating in or forming a neighbourhood watch scheme fosters a sense of community and allows residents to look out for one another.
- Security Systems: While not essential, a visible security system (even a dummy one) can act as a deterrent. Consider an alarm system, CCTV, or smart home security devices.
- Valuable Storage: Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. Consider a safe or a secure storage location.
It's important to remember that even with these precautions, no method guarantees complete protection. However, by taking proactive steps, residents of Horsmonden can significantly reduce their vulnerability to burglaries and contribute to the continued safety of their community. The relatively low crime rates already present are a strong foundation to build upon.