While Royal Tunbridge Wells boasts a relatively lower crime rate of 79.7 per 1,000 residents compared to the UK average of 91.6, burglaries remain a concern for homeowners. Understanding the local context and taking preventative measures is crucial. The property crime rate in Royal Tunbridge Wells stands at 28.3 per 1,000, indicating that property-related offences are a factor.
So, what can you do to protect your home? Here are some practical tips tailored to the Royal Tunbridge Wells area:
- Secure Your Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows are robust and fitted with reliable locks. Consider upgrading to British Standard (BS) 3621 locks for enhanced security. Regularly check their functionality.
- Lighting is Your Friend: Install motion-sensor security lighting around your property. Well-lit areas deter potential burglars, especially during the darker months.
- Visible Security Measures: Displaying security signs or stickers can act as a deterrent. Even a fake security camera can sometimes be effective.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Royal Tunbridge Wells benefits from a strong sense of community. Joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme allows neighbours to look out for each other and report suspicious activity.
- Don't Advertise Your Absence: Avoid posting about upcoming holidays or trips on social media. Burglars often use this information to target empty homes.
- Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items out of sight from windows. Consider using a safe for items of significant worth.
- Consider an Alarm System: While not essential, a monitored alarm system can provide an extra layer of security and alert authorities in the event of a break-in.
- Trim Overgrown Vegetation: Overgrown bushes and trees can provide cover for burglars. Keep your garden tidy and well-maintained.
The population of the Royal Tunbridge Wells BUA is 52,894, which means a significant number of potential neighbours are also contributing to the safety of the area. By working together and taking these preventative steps, residents of Royal Tunbridge Wells can further reduce their risk of burglary and maintain the area’s positive safety score.