General Crime Prevention advice

Dear Valley Ward Members,

The summer months are a great opportunity to enjoy longer days, warmer weather and spend more time outdoors. Whether you’re meeting friends, attending festivals, walking in the countryside or enjoying a night out, it’s important to keep personal safety in mind so you can make the most of the season. 

Plan Ahead Before heading out, let someone you trust know where you’re going and when you expect to be home, particularly if you’re travelling alone. Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged and consider carrying a portable power bank if you’ll be out for several hours. 

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings Avoid becoming distracted by constantly looking at your phone or wearing headphones at a high volume. Being aware of what’s happening around you can help you identify potential risks and react quickly if something doesn’t feel right. If you feel uncomfortable or think someone may be following you, trust your instincts. Head towards a busy, well-lit area or into a shop, café or other public place and ask for assistance if needed. 

Keep Valuables Secure Unfortunately, opportunistic thieves often target busy areas during the summer. • Keep bags zipped up and worn across your body where possible. • Avoid leaving phones, wallets or handbags unattended. • Don’t keep all your valuables in one place. • Be discreet when using expensive phones or jewellery in crowded locations. 

Walking Home Safely If you’re walking home after an evening out: • Stick to well-lit, populated routes. • Avoid shortcuts through parks, alleyways or isolated areas. • If possible, walk with friends rather than alone. • If using headphones, keep the volume low enough to hear what’s happening around you. 

Using Public Transport and Taxis Plan your journey before you leave. If using a taxi, book through a licensed operator where possible rather than accepting unsolicited offers. Before getting in, check that the vehicle matches your booking details and, if you’re travelling alone, consider sharing your live location or journey details with a trusted friend or family member. 

Trust Your Instincts Your instincts are often your best defence. If a situation doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from it. Don’t worry about appearing rude—your personal safety is far more important.

Enjoy Alcohol Responsibly If you’re drinking alcohol: • Never leave your drink unattended. • Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know well. • Keep an eye on your friends and make sure everyone gets home safely. • Know your limits and plan how you’ll get home before the evening begins safely. • Know your limits and plan how you’ll get home before the evening begins.

 In an Emergency If you or someone else is in immediate danger, always call 999. If it is not an emergency but you need to report suspicious activity or a crime, you can contact your local police force via 101 or report information online through our local police website- https://www.met.police.uk/ro/report/