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Security warning for residents as the clocks go back... |
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Residents across East Cheshire are being urged to be on their guard against burglars as the darker nights draw in. Police are urging residents to reassess their current security measures in the weeks before the clocks go back.
Residents are being reminded to remain security conscious and to take steps to reduce their chances of falling foul of thieves. |
· Make sure that all windows are closed and locked or, at the very least, use the security measures on modern windows, which allow them to let some air in but still be locked.
· All external doors should be secured at all times, even when you are at home.
· Keep desirable items out of view to passers-by - valuables should not be visible from windows and doors in your home.
· The same applies to valuable items stored away in garages or sheds - ensure that garages and sheds are locked with strong padlocks and, ideally, fitted with an alarm.
With the clocks going back at the end of the month neighbours are also being encouraged to brighten up their homes and make them looked ‘lived in′ − as burglars are often attracted to homes that have been left in darkness.
· Consider buying timer switches to turn on table lamps, standard lamps and radios around the home as it gets dark to make it look as if someone is at home.
· Residents are also being urged to consider installing outside lights - dusk till dawn lights with a low wattage bulb will give a constant light when needed. They switch on as it gets dark and turn off when it gets lighter.
Drivers are being urged to play their part too − by keeping their car keys safe and secure at all times. Residents are being warned about car and key burglaries - where thieves have got into a house and stolen the car keys before taking the vehicle from the driveway.
· Ensure your car keys are not left on view and are kept safe and out of sight.
· Insecure vehicles are also an easy target for thieves who often check door handles until they find a car that is unlocked and then steal any valuable items from inside − or steal the car itself.
We are urging residents to remain security conscious and to take a few steps to ensure their home is secure - especially as the darker nights draw in.
Many burglars are attracted to homes that have been left in darkness − if people are going to be late home from work or out for the night they need to ensure their home is properly secured and not a target for thieves.
Police in East Cheshire are committed to tackling this type of crime and are doing all they can to reduce the number of incidents in the area and to offer reassurance and valuable security advice to residents.
Local residents are also being urged to help play their part in tackling this type of crime. The police need the continued support of the local community and we would urge residents to remain vigilant and to report anyone acting suspiciously or any suspicious vehicles in the area - especially when it is dark - to the police immediately. Even the smallest amount of information can be useful when piecing together a case.
"We would also urge them to address their own home security measures to make life even more difficult for thieves."