Met Police Crime Prevention Advice for South Norwood (SE25) Residents

Met Police Crime Prevention Advice for South Norwood (SE25) Residents – October 2026

Dear Resident,

As we move into the autumn and winter months, the Metropolitan Police would like to share some important crime prevention advice with residents across the South Norwood Ward (SE25).

Historically, darker evenings and the lead-up to the festive season can present increased opportunities for criminals. Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Home Security

Please take extra care to secure your home:

Always lock doors and windows when leaving your property, even for a short period.

Double-lock UPVC doors where possible.

Ensure valuables such as laptops, mobile phones, car keys and handbags are kept out of sight.

Consider using timer switches for lights if you are away during the evening.

If you have CCTV, doorbell cameras or alarms, ensure they are working correctly.

Vehicle Crime Prevention

Vehicle crime remains an issue across London. Residents are reminded to:

Lock vehicles and fully close all windows.

Remove all valuables, including sat-navs, bags and charging cables.

Leave glove compartments and storage areas empty where possible.

Park in well-lit areas and use secure parking facilities whenever available.

Consider steering wheel locks or other approved security devices.

Catalytic Converter and Vehicle Theft

Be alert to suspicious activity around parked vehicles.

Report anyone seen working underneath vehicles in unusual circumstances.

Owners of keyless vehicles should store keys away from doors and windows and use signal-blocking pouches where appropriate.

Personal Safety

With darker evenings approaching:

Plan journeys in advance where possible.

Stay in well-lit and populated areas.

Avoid displaying expensive jewellery, mobile phones or large amounts of cash.

Remain aware of your surroundings, particularly when using mobile devices.

If you feel threatened or unsafe, move to a populated area and call police if necessary.

Online Safety and Fraud Prevention

Fraud continues to be one of the most commonly reported crimes.

Please remember:

Never share banking passwords, PINs or security codes.

Be cautious of unsolicited emails, text messages and phone calls.

Verify requests for money, even if they appear to come from friends or family.

Shop only through reputable online retailers and use secure payment methods.

Report suspicious messages and scams immediately.

Halloween and Bonfire Night Safety

During October and early November:

Be respectful of neighbours and local communities.

Parents should know the whereabouts of children participating in Halloween activities.

Report antisocial behaviour, criminal damage or dangerous misuse of fireworks.

Fireworks should only be purchased from licensed retailers and used responsibly.

Reporting Crime and Suspicious Activity

The Metropolitan Police relies on information from local residents to help keep our communities safe.

Emergency: Call 999 if a crime is in progress or there is immediate danger.

Non-Emergency: Call 101 to report crime or concerns.

Online Reporting: Visit the Metropolitan Police website.

Crimestoppers: Report anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the Crimestoppers website.

Working Together for a Safer South Norwood

The Safer Neighbourhood Team would like to thank residents for their continued support and vigilance. By working together and reporting concerns promptly, we can help make South Norwood (SE25) a safer place for everyone.

If you would like to receive local policing updates, attend community engagement events, or learn more about crime prevention initiatives in the ward, please keep an eye on local communications and Metropolitan Police community messaging channels.

Kind regards,

South Norwood SNT
"Working together to keep South Norwood safe."

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Paul Marriott
(Metropolitan Police, Police Constable, SNT - South Norwood)