Crime and Safety

The chances that you or a member of your family will be a victim of violent crime are low. Violent crimes are still comparatively rare and account for a very small part of recorded crime. Nevertheless, many people are frightened that they, or someone close to them, will be the victim of a violent attack.

The best way to minimise the risk of attack is by taking sensible precautions. Most people already do this as part of their everyday lives, often without realising it. You may already be aware of some of the suggestions listed below, but some may be new to you, and you may find them useful.

• If you walk alone after dark get a personal attack alarm
• Cover up expensive looking jewellery
• Don't hitch hike or accept lifts from people you don't know
• Carry your bags close to you, keep your keys in a separate pocket
• Vary your routes sticking to well lit roads and pavements
• Don't take short cuts through dark alleys or waste ground
• Walk facing traffic so that a car cannot pull up behind you unnoticed