Home and Personal Safety
Being a victim of crime can have a deep impact on how safe people feel in their homes, their community and within themselves. It is well documented that many burglaries and thefts are committed by opportunistic criminals. Being mindful of your security measures around your home, and with your belongings in general, can make a big difference in ensuring you do not become a victim of crime.
Some simple hints and tips to secure your home and property:
- Check doors and windows for weaknesses
- Fit and operate locks to downstairs windows – ensure if you leave your property you close all windows and secure the property
- Keep house and car keys safe, and away from being easily accessed through doors and windows
- Secure keyless entry car keys in a suitable location / within an RFID holder
- Consider installing a burglar alarm – if you have one, test it and use it
- Avoid leaving valuables within sight or having bikes and toys around the outside of the house
- If you have a garage, securely store items, including your car, within it, and lock the garage where possible
- Ensure you have appropriate lighting
- Avoid your property being overly shielded by hedging which could conceal someone gaining access
- Do not leave valuable in plain sight in an unoccupied car
PCSP delivers a Home Security Scheme, The 4 Tier Security Scheme, where people who have been victims of crime can get access to home security equipment following an assessment and referral from a PSNI Crime Prevention Officer.
Those in fear of crime can access basic security equipment, advice and information to assist in alleviating their fears and building confidence.For further information on the 4 Tier Security Scheme please contact Antrim and Newtownabbey Policing and Community Safety Partnership
E. pcsp@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Personal Safety:
- When walking, try to stay to well used, paths and areas with lighting; if possible avoid walking alone; vary your routes and avoid routine; in the darker evenings wear highly visible clothing; always let someone know where you are going and your expected time of return.
- Carry a phone if possible and a personal alarm – these can be obtained by contacting Antrim and Newtownabbey PCSP (subject to availability of stock)
- If cycling, ensure your bike is well maintained with working bell, lights and brakes. Secure your bike if stopping along your route; always wear a helmet and hi-vis clothing
- Keep your handbag, wallet and purse secured. Use an RFID purse/ wallet to safeguard data contained on your bank cards; alternatively, you can place your bank cards inside small RFID pouches – these are available from the PCSP (subject to availability)
Useful contacts:
Antrim & Newtownabbey Policing and Community Safety Partnership
T. 028 9446 3113 / 028 9034 0000
Police Service of Northern Ireland (Antrim& Newtownabbey)
Crime Prevention Officer T. 101
Northern Ireland Housing Executive Maintenance Department
T. 0344 892 0901
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Health and Wellbeing
T. 028 9034 0160
Further Information:
A wider range of useful crime prevention information is available on the Police Service of Northern Ireland website: www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/keeping-safe/protecting-your-home/house-security