If you witness a crime in the Vale of White Horse, your immediate response should prioritise your safety. The Vale of White Horse, a Local Authority District (LAD) with a population of 149,347, has a crime rate of 54.1 per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While the area boasts a safety score of 87/100, which is above the UK average of 79, it’s still vital to know how to respond appropriately when witnessing criminal activity.
Emergency Situations: Call 999
If a crime is in progress and poses an immediate threat to life or property, dial 999 without hesitation. Provide the operator with your location, a description of the incident, and any details about the individuals involved. Remain calm and follow their instructions.
Non-Emergency Situations: Reporting the Crime
For crimes that are not an immediate emergency, you should report the incident to Thames Valley Police. There are several ways to do this:
- Online Reporting: The Thames Valley Police website (https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/) offers an online reporting tool for non-urgent incidents. This is often the quickest and most convenient method.
- Non-Emergency Number: Call 101. This number is for non-urgent reports and general police enquiries. Be prepared to provide details such as your name, contact information, and a clear description of what you witnessed.
- In Person: You can visit a local police station to report the crime in person.
What Information to Provide
When reporting, be as detailed as possible. This includes:
- A description of the crime and what you saw.
- The location of the incident.
- The time the incident occurred.
- A description of any individuals involved (appearance, clothing, etc.).
- Any vehicle details (registration number, make, model).
- Your own contact information (so police can follow up).
Your Safety is Key
Do not attempt to intervene or confront the perpetrator yourself. Your safety is the most important consideration. If you feel threatened, move to a safe location and call the police. Even if you think the incident is minor, reporting it helps police monitor crime trends and allocate resources effectively, contributing to the overall safety of the Vale of White Horse.