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🌙🍂 DARKER NIGHTS ARE HERE – A FEW SIMPLE SAFETY REMINDERS
As summer draws to a close and the evenings start getting darker earlier, it’s a good time to think about a few simple ways we can all stay safe and help protect our homes and communities.
🏠 SECURE YOUR HOME
As the nights get darker, make sure doors and windows are locked when you’re out, even if you’re only popping out for a short time.
If you’re going out for the evening, consider using lights on timers so your home doesn’t appear empty. Don’t leave valuables visible through windows and remember to secure garages, sheds and outbuildings too.
🔑 KEEP YOUR KEYS SAFE
Don’t leave house or car keys somewhere they can easily be seen or reached through a window or letterbox. If you have a vehicle with keyless entry, check whether your car manufacturer recommends additional security measures.
🚗 THINK ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE
Before leaving your car, check that it’s locked and don’t leave bags, shopping or other valuables on display.
As the evenings get darker, well-lit and secure parking areas are preferable where possible.
🚶♀️ STAY SAFE WHEN OUT AND ABOUT
If you’re walking home after work, school or an evening out, stick to well-lit routes where possible and remain aware of your surroundings.
Keep your phone safely away while walking and, if you’re wearing headphones, consider keeping the volume low enough that you can still hear what’s happening around you.
If you’re meeting friends or heading home late, let someone know your plans and consider travelling with others where possible.
🐕 DOG WALKERS
If you’re walking your dog in the darker evenings, consider using reflective clothing or accessories for yourself and your dog. A torch can also help you remain visible and spot potential hazards.
👀 LOOK OUT FOR YOUR NEIGHBOURS
Darker evenings can make it harder to spot what’s happening around your community. If you notice something that doesn’t look right, don’t put yourself at risk — make a note of useful information such as descriptions, vehicle registrations or direction of travel and report it to police where appropriate.
💡 A LITTLE PREVENTION CAN GO A LONG WAY
Simple things like good lighting, secure doors and windows, being aware of your surroundings and looking out for one another can all help make our neighbourhoods safer.
And remember — if you see something suspicious, don’t put yourself at risk by getting involved.
📞 999 – if a crime is happening now or someone is in immediate danger.
📞 101 – for non-emergency police matters.
Your local Safer Neighbourhood Team will continue to patrol and work with our communities as we head into the darker evenings.
Stay safe and look after one another. 💙🌙 | 
