Safer pod deployed in Seaham to prevent crime and reduce antisocial behaviour

A purpose-built security device has been deployed in Seaham to aid prevention and detection of arson, antisocial behaviour and retail crime.

The Safer Pod X4, which has been situated on The Avenue, is fitted with 24-hour monitored CCTV, audio recording, an array of sensors including smoke detection, and thermal imaging cameras.

It is designed to provide a strong visual deterrent to potential criminals, to detect fires at the earliest opportunity, and to gather extensive evidence related to any suspicious activity.

The deployment is part of an ongoing partnership between Durham Constabulary and Safer Group which has seen Safer Pods utilised across the county.

In Darlington, a trial deployment saw reported incidents of shoplifting fall from 21 to just 1, and reported incidents of anti-social behaviour fall from 18 to zero.

The reduction saved Durham Constabulary nearly £20,000.

Inspector Thomas Teague, of Seaham Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “People in our community have a right to feel safe where they live and work.

“New technologies such as the Safer Pods are a valuable opportunity to provide not only a visual deterrent to potential perpetrators of crime, but also a reassurance to residents and a means of collecting vital evidence.

“There have been a number of suspected arsons in the area in recent months, and our hope is that this deployment will both reassure people that we are doing everything we can to prevent further incidents, and also assist us in tracking down any potential suspects in the event that one occurs.”

Jamie Gainford, of Safer Group, said: “The primary aim of the X4 is to ensure early detection of potential fires, which enables a faster and more coordinated response from the emergency services.

“The tower offers a highly visible deterrent, and the deployment will be supported by Safer Group's dedicated 24-hour CCTV monitoring control room.”

Seaham Station Manager Gary Tough, of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS), said: “The recent rise in deliberate fires in the Seaham area has been an understandable concern for residents.

“Through coordinated patrols, community engagement, and targeted prevention work, we have achieved a significant reduction in incidents.

“The deployment of the Safer Pod X4 is another important step forward. Its specialist technology will support earlier detection of fires, improve our ability to monitor high risk areas, and provide valuable evidence to assist our police colleagues with any investigations.”