Crime and ASB Prevention Advice

Met Engage Community Alert: Robbery, Burglary & ASB Prevention – Stay Aware, Stay Safe

Hello everyone,

We’re sharing important advice to help you stay safe from robbery, while also supporting you with key guidance on burglary prevention and anti‑social behaviour (ASB). The information below is based on verified Metropolitan Police crime‑prevention guidance.

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 Robbery Prevention – Our Main Focus

Robberies often happen quickly and target people who appear distracted or have valuables visible. Staying alert and taking small precautions can significantly reduce risk.

Keep Valuables Out of Sight

·  Robbers commonly look for phones, watches or bags that are easy to snatch — keeping items out of sight makes you less likely to be targeted. [met.police.uk]

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

· Avoid distractions such as headphones, texting while walking, or checking your phone in isolated areas.

· Choose well‑lit, busy routes wherever possible to reduce opportunity for offenders. 

Move Confidently and Stay Vigilant

· Walk with purpose, especially near transport hubs, parks or quiet streets. Offenders often look for individuals who seem unaware of their surroundings.

If You Witness Suspicious Behaviour

· Report suspicious loitering attempts to follow individuals, or anyone checking for easy‑to‑grab property. Early reporting helps officers act quickly.

🔐 Burglary Prevention

Burglaries are typically opportunistic, with offenders targeting homes that appear easy to enter or poorly protected.

Secure Your Home

· Always lock doors and windows, even while you’re inside. Offenders frequently exploit properties with unsecured entry points. [members.me...gage.co.uk]

· Keep valuables out of sight from windows or doors. 

· Use lighting, alarms and visible security devices to discourage offenders. Homes without visible alarms and with poor lighting are more likely to be targeted. 

CCTV & Doorbell Cameras

· Make sure your CCTV or video doorbell is working properly and recording clearly.

· Review footage regularly, especially if you notice suspicious activity.

·  Provide footage promptly to police when requested — fast access to evidence helps identify suspects.
(Supported by MPS guidance highlighting the importance of surveillance methods in crime prevention.) [opendoorhomes.org]

Protect Boundaries & Outbuildings

· Weak rear boundaries, open side gates and accessible bins make it easier for burglars to gain access. 

·  Keep sheds and garages secure — burglars may use tools stored inside to force entry. [police.uk]

When Leaving Home

· Before going out: lock up fully, hide valuables, set timer lights, and secure all gates. 

Property Marking

· Mark or record your valuables to make them harder to resell and easier for police to identify. 

Anti‑Social Behaviour (ASB) – How to Report It

Report to the Council (Civil ASB)

These are non‑criminal issues managed by local authorities:

· Noise complaints

· Parking disputes

· Littering or environmental concerns

Report to Police (Crime‑related ASB)

Report at the time or as soon as possible:

· Threatening behaviour

· Drug activity

· Criminal damage / vandalism

· ASB linked to criminality

Timely reporting gives police the best chance to respond effectively.

📞 Contact Information

· 999 – Emergency

· 101 – Non‑emergency crime, suspicious behaviour or crime‑related ASB

· Crimestoppers – Report information anonymously: 0800 555 111

· Contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team via Met Engage for tailored advice

Your safety is our priority. If you have concerns or want support on robbery, burglary or ASB prevention, please reach out to your local policing team.

Stay safe,
Your Local Policing Team