During the winter months, we see a rise in burglary as it gets darker earlier. Below are some general security and safety measures recommended by our local police for everyone to take in order to protect themselves and make their home less of a target and less accessible to burglars.

AT HOME

• If you are going to be out of the house while it’s dark, consider a timer switch for lights. Set them to come on from 4pm onwards in bedrooms and/or living rooms to give the appearance that someone is home.
• Keep any access to the side and rear of your property locked at all times. The majority of our burglaries occur by the suspect gaining access to the rear of the property via a side gate or low fencing. If you do nothing else on this list, please keep these secure.
• Test your security lights, check that the bulbs are working. If you don’t have security lights, invest in some.
• Lock away all garden accessories in garages, sheds. Do not leave them on display for people to steal. Many garden accessories are used by burglars to smash into houses or climb onto flat roofs.
• Remember to keep keys in a safe location, not in sight of windows or the front door.
• Don’t advertise your goods, keep valuables out of sight from your windows.
• Lock all windows and double lock doors when you go out, even if it’s only for a few minutes.
• Remember to cancel deliveries if you are going away. Internet deliveries, milk bottles or newspapers piling up when you are on holiday are a clear sign to burglars that you are not at home.
• Consider installing a burglar alarm, these are proven to deter thieves. They will also alert your neighbours who should naturally look out to see what’s going on. Some alarms call through directly to the police, increasing the chance of catching the burglars in the act.
• Keep hedges at the front of the property low and have a good security light both front and rear, this prevents burglars having anywhere to hide. Gravel also works as a good deterrent as it takes away any chance of a silent approach.
• Install trellises and spiky plants to stop burglars from climbing over fences.
• Mark any gifts you receive with your postcode and house number using a property marking pen. This helps ensure any stolen property can be returned and can help police prosecute thieves.
• Keep Christmas gifts out of sight of external windows.
• Don’t leave empty packaging and boxes displaying your new Christmas goods outside your property for longer than necessary. Don’t put them out for the bin men the night before, get up early and place them out then.

OUT SHOPPING

• Be aware of your belongings when in crowded shopping centres/streets. Keep purses and mobile phones secure in zipped bags and pockets.
• Put your purse or wallet away before leaving the till, do not let staff or other customers rush you.
• Take care at the ATM – be wary of people standing too close for comfort. For extra security you can use the cash points located inside the bank.
• Try not to store valuable goods in your car, if you must drop off shopping – keep all items hidden in the boot.