The updated Countryside Code
With people enjoying the outdoors more than ever before Natural England and Natural Resources Wales have reviewed and refreshed the Countryside Code to help people enjoy outside space in a safe and respectful way. The code has a refreshed tone, creating a guide rather than list of rules, recognising the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time outside. Key changes to the Code include: Advice on creating a welcoming environment; saying hello to other visitors and sharing the outside space Reminders to not feed livestock, horses or wild animals Staying on marked footpaths, even when muddy, to protect crops and wildlife Information on certain outdoor activities such as wild swimming Clearer guidance for dog walkers to take home dog poo and use their own bin if there is no public bin available Wording to make clear that the code applies to all natural places, including parks, waterways, coast and countryside
Catalytic converter theft
Precious metals such as rhodium, platinum and palladium are used in catalytic converters. The price of these metals has risen sharply in recent years and as a result has led to an increase in the theft of catalytic converters. Hybrid vehicles, vans, SUVs and 4x4s are the most commonly targeted vehicles. Tips to reduce risk of having your catalytic converter stolen: Locks: Ask your manufacturer or dealership for advice on adding locks/guards for protection. Products will need to be approved by the vehicle manufacturer, also inform your insurance company of any vehicle modifications. Marking: Security marking of catalytic converters is possible with a heat resistant marking system which is best applied by a garage when being serviced. Parking: Park in a secure, well-lit area. Speak to your dealership to find out the position of your catalytic converter and advice on defensive parking.
Ask for ANI has expanded
Ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) was launched in pharmacies across the UK at the start of 2021 as a code word scheme to provide a simple and discreet way for domestic abuse victims to signal that they need immediate help. A staff member will then provide support and advice. The service has been expanded into 200 Superdrug pharmacies. It continues running in 2,300 Boots pharmacies and 255 independent pharmacies. For further details please visit the Ask for ANI website.
Keyless Car (relay) Theft
Offenders are using increasingly sophisticated tools to steal cars with keyless entry by tricking the system into thinking the key is nearby. They do not need to gain access to your home to take the keys. Tips for preventing Keyless Car Theft: Hide Keys: keep keys out of sight from doors and windows Signal Blocking: Use a certified pouch or tin to store keys which will block the signal Deterrent Locks: Use Sold Secure approved products such as steering wheel, pedal or gear locks to deter offenders Parking: Park in a garage if you have one. If parking on your driveway consider fitting outdoor motion detector lighting and CCTV from installers who are members of the National Security Inspectorate or the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board.
Are you Scam-Savvy?
With criminals becoming more sophisticated, becoming a victim to fraud and scams is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about. Take Five have created a quiz on their website so you can see how scam savvy you are and learn how to keep your money and information safe from criminals.
Victim's Code updated
The Code focuses on victims’ rights and sets out the minimum standard that organisations including the police, Crown Prosecution Service and the Probation Service must provide to victims of crime. The code has been updated and sets out what each criminal justice agency must do for victims and the timeframe in which they must do it. Visit the Victim Support website for further details.
As always, if you spot something suspicious, or you’ve been a victim of crime, then we would encourage you to call 101 or report it to us online via our reporting tool. Please remember that if a crime is in progress, the suspects are at the scene, or a person is in immediate danger then please dial 999.