What can I do to reduce crime?

There are many things we can all do to make our communities safer. The majority of crime is opportunistic, for example valuables left in view in a car or an open window on an empty house. Listed below are several sites offering practical advice on how to reduce and prevent crime. Many of these guidelines are common sense, however following these simple steps can prevent crime and deter criminals from your local area.

Practical advice

You can get practical advice from the Home Office:

• Home Office - how you can prevent crime
• Home Office - tips to prevent burglary

Since the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership's targets are based upon reported crime, we rely upon the public to give us as much information as possible. There are still aspects of crime which remain culturally taboo. Victims sometimes don't report crime through fear of the perpetrator or a sense that it wouldn't do any good to tell anyone; however catching developing trends early is essential to the success of the Crime Reduction Groups. There are several ways to report crime anonymously, and many services available to support victims in fear of harm. The charity CrimeStoppers reports that 19 criminals are arrested and charged every day and a murderer is arrested and charged every four days due to the information they receive from anonymous callers. Even if you do not want to give your name, your information may save lives.

Local crime reduction schemes and events

Throughout the year Plymouth hosts many different crime reduction schemes and events, such as Community Focus Weeks These are an excellent opportunity to get to know the service providers in your area - and your neighbours! Please go to our news and events page for details of forthcoming events and schemes you can get involved in. This page is updated regularly.