Don't be a victim of graffiti

Graffiti is a problem for the whole community, but you can help to make a difference.

There are a number of measures that you can take to help reduce the likelihood of being subjected to graffiti:

• Removing graffiti as soon as it appears. It makes easier to remove and reduces the risk of vandals doing it again.
• Reduce access to and the size or number of walls available by planting aggressive shrubs (e.g. berbris) or growing climbers up walls and fences. This may discourage vandals from accessing your property.
• Use deterrent measures such installing CCTV equipment or the use motion-activated lighting.
• Reduce accessibility to your property, especially during night time periods e.g. locking gates, entrances.
• Increase natural surveillance by ensuring hedges or fences are no more than one metre high and branches on trees are no lower than two metres. This should provide a one metre sightline from public roads and footpaths. 
• Join your local Neighbourhood Watch Group.
• Keep a small tin of matching paint handy so you can cover over any graffiti.
• Consider using anti-graffiti coatings which are available from local DIY stores (ensure you read the instructions properly and wear the appropriate safety clothing when applying).
• Contact Hull City Council on 01482 300 300, if you know of any premises selling aerosol paints to children under 16-years-old.

If you can identify anyone responsible for graffiti in your neighbourhood and you are willing to provide a witness statement, please contact Hull City Council on 01482 300 300 or Humberside Police on 0845 60 60 222.

Any information you provide will be treated in the strictest confidence and in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. Data provide by you will not be made public without your permission.