Summer is here and some simple tips to keep you, your family and your property safer
Remember to close windows, and lock cars and caravans when leaving.
Keyless fobs - think about keeping them in a ‘faraday’ pouch.
Ensure pets are protected from heat, and have ample water and food, and not kept unattended in vehicles.
Don't leave valuables in cars. If you have to, then place them out of sight.
At home, keep sheds and garages looked. Store garden equipment away at night.
Bikes - use a lock when leaving unattended, even if for only a few minutes.
Be conscious of other people and your surroundings. If you spot anti-social behaviour - report it.
Whilst out and about be aware of your mobile, camera, keys, sunglasses, purse, wallet - all targets for thieves.
Use smart bulbs at home or lights on timers. Fit sensors to lights in the garden to illuminate when movement is sensed.
Don’t discuss holiday plans in public or on social media.
Don’t put your home address on your holiday baggage label.
If you are planning a holiday, ask neighbours to watch over your home and to ensure that post is pushed completely through the letterbox.
Better still, set up a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to build safer homes and communities.
To join Neighbourhood Watch, sign-up at the website ourwatch.org.uk and become a member. It’s free. or log into your account if already registered https://members.ourwatchmember.org.uk. Whilst there, join a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme or start a scheme yourself. It’s easy and an excellent way to bring your neighbours together to build a safer community. If you are registered through Bee In The Loop, you may need to add Neighbourhood Watch as an Information Provider to see the schemes near you.
Keeping communities safe is a shared responsibility. Whether you're a victim, a witness, or simply notice something unusual, reporting crime and suspicious activity plays a vital role in preventing harm and supporting justice.
Why Reporting Matters
Protects individuals and communities
Helps police respond quickly and effectively
Supports investigations and prosecutions
Prevents future crimes
Strengthens public safety and trust
How to Report a Crime
1. In an Emergency
If a crime is happening now, someone is in immediate danger, or you need urgent police assistance:
Call 999 and ask for the police.
2. Non-Emergency Situations
For crimes that are not urgent (e.g. theft, criminal damage, harassment):
Call 101 – the non-emergency police number (UK only).
For financial or terrorism-related concerns: Submit a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) to the National Crime Agency (NCA)
SARs are typically submitted by professionals (e.g. banks, lawyers), but individuals can also report if they suspect money laundering or terrorist financing.
What to Include in a Report
When reporting a crime or suspicious activity, try to provide:
What happened
When and where it occurred
Descriptions of people, vehicles, or behaviour
Any evidence (photos, videos, documents)
Your contact details (unless reporting anonymously)
Reporting crime and suspicious activity is not just a civic duty—it’s a powerful way to protect your community and help our police officers do their job. Whether you choose to report openly or anonymously, your information could make a real difference.
StreetSafe is a service that allows you to report safety concerns in public places without giving us your name (anonymously). This includes issues like poorly lit streets, abandoned buildings, or vandalism, as well as instances where you feel unsafe due to someone following or verbally abusing you.
Please note: StreetSafe is not for reporting crimes or emergencies. If you witness a crime please report it online. If you're unsure whether something is a crime or not, read our advice.
Examples of situations that should be reported to StreetSafe include a poorly lit alleyway that makes you feel unsafe or a park with broken equipment that poses a safety hazard.
Safe4Summer is part of the Government’s mission to restore and strengthen local policing in communities and reduce or prevent anti-social behaviour (ASB). As part of this, there will be a greater visibility of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers and partners as we work together across crime hot spot areas. To find out what activities are on in your area visit https://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/your-safety/campaigns/safe4summer/safe4summer-activities/
Make sure you have The Police selected as an Information Provider in your Neighbourhood Watch account to receive updates on what has been happening in your area.
Message Sent By Neil McCall (Neighbourhood Watch Network, Vice Chair, Greater Manchester Neighbourhood Watch Association - Membership Support Administrator, Greater Manchester)
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