This week we have witnessed a worrying trend emerging. The Office for National Statistics has revealed that we have had the biggest year-on-year increase of recorded crimes for over a decade. This coincided with reports that our national policing resource is at the lowest level for over 30 years!
During the year, were nearly 5 million crimes were recorded by police forces throughout England and Wales, we have seen a decline in the number of police officers to only 123,142. This is the eighth consecutive year which has seen a fall in police numbers, resulting in the lowest level since 1985.
More alarmingly, the reported figures are coupled with statisticians communicating an acceleration in the rise of crime, with a 3% rise in 2015, 8% rise in 2016 and now a 10% in the most recent period.
It must be stressed, that The Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) excludes crimes against commercial property and bodies as well as public sector organisations and those living in communal establishments (such as care homes, student- halls of residence and prisons) so the true figure could be much more concerning.
We all know the police do a fantastic job but they are severely hampered due to the sheer volume of work coupled with the reduced resources.
What Can We Do?
The time has come that putting your own security and prevention solutions in place is necessary. We hope to try and help you make an informed decision as to the options. The important message is that an effective security system does not have to break the bank. Be sure not to have a ‘knee-jerk’ reaction and make the mistake that so many do, buying the first solution you see advertised. Consult an expert, advice is often free and can save you hundreds of pounds.
There are several areas to look at here:
Crime Prevention
It is a proven fact that the mere visual presence of a burglar alarm, CCTV or a sign communicating that there are monitored systems deployed, is a significant deterrent to criminals. Of course, with the rise of ‘dummy’ systems being perceived as a cheaper alternative, many perpetrators have become proficient experts in spotting such devices, resulting in significantly reduced effectiveness.
How you apply preventative measures will vary depending on the specific circumstances. Whether you are trying to prevent crime to your house, family or your commercial premises, at the core is the fact that your crime ‘prevention toolbox’ should contain a number of solutions.
Of course, crime prevention isn’t just about having the latest security technology, is must include simple preventative activities such as:
- Make sure you lock your doors and windows each time you leave the house
- Hide all your valuables
- Keep your keys hidden, including car keys and make sure that they are not near the letter-box. Criminals will use wire or other devices to hook the keys and gain access
- Don’t make it easy for them, keep tools and ladders stored in a locked place
- Maintain your fence, making it harder to have easy access
- Keep hedges low, promoting natural surveillance opportunities for neighbours
- Install good outside security lights
- Mark your property with your postcode and house number and register it on one of the national property registers or simply keep a record of your property
- Photograph any precious or valuable items again marking them as above
These are but a few ways you can take simple steps to protect your property, whether you are home or away.
Modern Security Solutions
The trusted burglar alarm has evolved significantly and now we have an array of options to deploy throughout our home or office.
SMART security systems will deliver a flexible and scalable security solutions for you, your family and business. With full connectivity, you can monitor your property from wherever you are, whether that be; away on business, on holiday or simply whilst at work. The smartphone has turned our access capability into one which is superior to many laptops or PC’s, making management and monitoring of SMART security systems simple, quick and flexible, even for the less tech-savvy of us.
ProtectMyProperty.co.uk can offer a full security suite of solutions for a connected home or smart home solution, from activating your lights remotely to monitoring your CCTV footage from wherever you are, all via your smartphone.
For full peace of mind, we have seen many customers opt for a fully monitored system, acting as your eyes and ears as well as delivering full service and support to your home or commercial security system.
Protecting Your Property
We do not want to evoke panic or concern, we hope that this article has been helpful. By putting a plan in place, you can increase your security simply and affordably. The key is getting expert advice on what you need and what will best address your specific circumstance.
As an NSI Approved company who has served clients since 1998 we would like to offer those wanting to find out what they can do to increase their family or business security, an opportunity to talk with one of our local Security Advisors.
24 July 2017
