A vibrant and cultural city home to almost 350,000 people, Coventry is an attractive destination for visitors, students and business owners. With three universities located across the city, it houses more than 50,000 students and attracted more than 11 million visitors in 2023.
By adopting a few key habits, residents, visitors and businesses can feel more confident and protected in the city. This guide will share practical tips to help you stay safe in different settings, whether at home, work, university or travelling around.
Meet Your Neighbours
One of the most effective ways to increase safety in your neighbourhood is by making connections with those around you. Knowing your neighbours can create a sense of community and provide a support network where everyone looks out for each other’s wellbeing.
A close-knit community is less likely to experience crime as neighbours often report suspicious activity and are more likely help each other out in emergencies. Having someone nearby who you can turn to adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Stay in Public Places
When navigating Coventry, it’s safer to stick to well-lit, public areas with regular foot traffic, especially in the evenings. This is especially important for students and shift workers who may be regularly travelling late at night.
Walk along main streets and avoid shortcuts through alleyways or parks. If you’re meeting someone for the first time, choose a busy public place rather than a private setting. These places offer better visibility and security as well as quick access to assistance where needed.
You might also consider using apps like “Find My Friends” to keep friends or family updated on your whereabouts when travelling solo. Knowing that others are aware of your location adds an extra layer of reassurance when travelling alone.
Protect Your Valuables
Theft can happen anywhere, but it’s especially common in busy public areas. Whether you’re navigating Coventry’s city centre, shopping areas or transport hubs, it’s important to stay alert and mindful of your valuables.
When in crowded areas like shopping centres or train stations, keep your bags close to you and avoid having items of high value on display. Stow your valuables in interior pockets or zipped bags. Small actions like these can prevent opportunistic theft.
What’s more, it’s wise to avoid leaving valuables in your car, as this can attract break-ins. Place bags, electronics or other valuables in the boot, under seats or in the glove compartment. Always lock your vehicle and park in well-lit areas where possible.
Secure Your Home
Home security is one of the most critical aspects of personal safety, especially in areas where rates of burglary and vandalism are higher, such as St Michael’s or Upper Stoke. Taking a few steps to secure your property can prevent many types of crime, from burglary to vandalism.
Always keep your doors and windows locked, even when you’re at home. Most burglaries occur when properties are not properly secured, so be sure to double-check. If you have a garden, ensure that sheds and gates are locked, especially if they contain valuable equipment.
Motion-sensor lights are an affordable way to increase visibility and deter trespassers. Installing alarm systems, cameras and video doorbells can add a layer of security, making it harder for intruders to go unnoticed.
Travel Safely
Whether you’re commuting for work, going out for the evenings or travelling within Coventry, staying safe while doing so can reduce your risk of getting into dangerous situations.
Make sure to use busier bus and train stations and travel with someone during late hours if possible. Remain vigilant of your surroundings, keeping your valuables close by and reporting any suspicious behaviour. It’s also advisable to plan your journey in advance to avoid waiting around for extended periods of time.
When travelling by cab, make sure to only use licensed taxis or well-known providers like Uber. Verify the driver’s ID and number plate before getting in and consider sharing your trip details with a friend or family member, especially at night.
If you’re travelling late, stick to busier streets and travel in groups where you can. University areas often have safer routes for students, so taking advantage of these can be helpful.
Know Who to Turn to
Knowing who to turn to in an emergency can make all the difference. Familiarising yourself with local emergency contacts can help you act quickly if you find yourself in a challenging situation.
For immediate emergencies, dial 999 to reach police, fire or ambulance services. Alternatively, use 101 to report non-urgent incidents that don’t require an immediate response.
Coventry has various community centres and crisis centres, such as shelters, mental health services and victim support groups. It’s advisable to familiarise yourself with these resources, especially if you or someone you know might need support.
Taybar Security: Keeping Coventry Safe
We are committed to keeping the people of Coventry safe, whether you’re a resident, visitor, student or business owner. Our top-quality security services enhance everyday safety by protecting the city from a range of crimes. From CCTV and mobile patrols to security personnel for businesses, our services are designed to make the city a safer place for everyone.
Through our professional, round-the-clock service, Taybar not only deters crime but responds swiftly to incidents, ensuring that everyone in the city feels safe, whether at home, work or out in public. No matter your needs, our team will help Coventry to foster a safer community.
