While Brookmans Park enjoys a relatively low crime rate of 32.8 per 1,000 residents, which is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6, burglaries remain a concern for homeowners everywhere. The property crime rate in Brookmans Park stands at 8.0 per 1,000, indicating there is still room for improvement in preventative measures. Here’s what homeowners in Brookmans Park can do to minimise their risk:
Reinforce Physical Security: A visible deterrent is often the first line of defence. Consider installing a monitored alarm system, even if it's basic. Upgrading window and door locks to high-security options is crucial. Solid core doors and reinforced frames provide a significant barrier. Ensure all ground floor windows have secure locks and consider security film to make glass harder to break.
Lighting and Visibility: Burglars prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. Install motion-sensor lighting around your property, particularly at entry points. Keep hedges and shrubs trimmed back to eliminate hiding places. A well-maintained and visible property signals that it’s occupied and protected.
Neighbourhood Watch & Community Engagement: Brookmans Park's strong community spirit is a valuable asset. Participating in or forming a neighbourhood watch scheme allows residents to look out for one another and report suspicious activity. Sharing information and concerns with neighbours creates a network of vigilance.
Smart Home Technology: Smart home devices, such as security cameras (both visible and hidden) and smart locks, offer remote monitoring and control. These can provide real-time alerts and allow homeowners to remotely check on their properties, even when they’re away.
Don't Advertise Your Absence: Avoid posting travel plans on social media. Ask a neighbour to collect mail and newspapers while you’re away, and consider using timer switches to turn lights on and off to simulate occupancy. Ensure valuables are not visible from windows.
Consider a Safe: For high-value items like jewellery or important documents, a bolted-down safe provides a secure storage solution.
By implementing these measures, homeowners in Brookmans Park can contribute to the area’s already high safety score and further reduce their vulnerability to burglaries.