Making Oakwood Safer
Oakwood is a very safe and pleasant place to live and work. The fear of crime is far higher than the actually reality of crime in your area. Unfortunately, Oakwood is not imune to crime or anti-social behaviour, but there are lots of simple inexpensive things can be done to protect yourself, your car and your property. Here are some simple tips on how you can reduce the chance of being a victim of crime.
Burglary
Most burglaries are carried out by opportunist thieves. Nearly a quarter of burglaries are a result of an open door or window. So if you go out even for a few minutes remember lock up. If you lose your keys, how easy would it be for just a few minutes, think like a burglar. Take the following precautions where possible:-
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Fit security locks to wooden windows.
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Install security lights to both the front and rear of your property.
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Keep valuable items out of sight and mark them with your postcode - keep a list to help in the event of items being stolen.
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Get a neighbour to watch your home whilst you are away. Please consider starting or joining a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.
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Install a burglar alarm. A good one can cost as little as £300.00 and would in most cases result in a reduction in the cost of your home insurance.
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Do not leave spare keys outside in a garage or shed, that's the first place a thief will look and may invalidate your home insurance.
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Don't leave your shed or garage keys on display in your home.
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Garges and sheds are often left unlocked and are full of tools, which are ideal for breaking into the rest of the house. Buy strong locks, install an alarm and sign and also remember to use them.
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Locl ladders inside your garage or shed to stop a thief using them. Or lock ladders horizontally to a strong bracket on an outside wall.
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Check for weak spots, where a thief could get into your garden. Put up gates or grow a thorny hedge.
Personal Safety
The chances of you or a family member becoming a victim of violent crime are very low in Oakwood. Violent crime by strangers in public is still rare and accounts for a very, very small part of recorded crime. However, you may be by taking a few sensible precautions.
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In general you will bw safest in bright,well-lit busy areas.
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Try to look and act confident like you know where you are going.
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Spread your valuables around your body.
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When out walking or jogging, you should not listen to a personal stereo through headphones, so you can stay alert to your surroundings.
Older People
Some older people may feel more vulnerable to some crimes, but are actually less likely to become a victim. Take a few simple steps to reduce the risks.
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Get a personnel alarm - they can cost about £5.00
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Don't keep large amounts of monies at home.
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If you have a chain on your doors then make sure you use it.
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Always ask for identification from people you do not know or expect.
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Don't keep your credit card and your security number together.
Vehicle Crime
Some crime is against cars and includes theft from cars-especially Satellite Navigation Systems (SAT NAV).The Oakwood Neighbourhood Team is focusing on reducing car crime in Oakwood area. So take the following precautions:
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Lock your car and close the windows every time you leave your car. Don't leave the keys in the car, when it is parked in the driveway.
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Tuck in the wing mirrors and put the aerial down to discourage vandals.
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Never store the cars documents inside the car.
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Never leave valuables such as Sat Navs or evidence of valuables on display inside the car.
Further help and advice is available from the local police prevention officer and burglary team. Telephone 0345 123 33 33
To help promote good practice and advice the Oakwood Neighbourhood Board works closely with the Police, to raise awareness of the support available and to promote good practise.
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Safer Oakwood
