Dear Watch members,
Police in East Cheshire are warning people not to let burglary blossom in the Spring.
They say the arrival of warmer weather traditionally brings an increase in break-ins as people unwittingly invite criminals into their homes.
Inspector Nigel Groom, head of the Cheshire Police Eastern Area Burglary Unit said, "At this time of year people begin spending more time outside and everything becomes a bit more relaxed.
"They leave the door unlocked because they are not very far away. They don't think about the possibility of someone nipping into their home while they are just a few yards down garden the path. But it happens!
"We are running a campaign to encourage people to keep doors locked at all times, whether you are in or out of the house. A third of all burglaries in this area are carried out by criminals who specialise in sneak-ins. They are just looking for a door that isn't locked. Simply turning a key can be a very effective bit of crime prevention.
"During Spring and summer, people also leave garden tools lying about; sometimes overnight. That is an invitation to a criminal, too. A spade or trowel or hoe turns into a lever for forcing a door or window open.
"Tools should be kept locked away when they're not in use. If they are in a shed make sure the hasp is fitted firmly and use a good quality padlock. It's also a good idea to padlock tools together. It makes them more difficult to move and use.
"We spend a lot of time identifying and arresting burglars and collecting evidence to prosecute them, but people must accept responsibility for protecting their homes against crime.
"Keep an eye open for anyone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood. Burglars usually spend some time looking round to locate a vulnerable house and the sneak-in burglars will dodge in and out of gardens, trying doors.
"If you see anyone behaving in a way that causes you concern, call the Cheshire Police Information line, 0845 458 000 and report it. You may prevent your neighbours, or yourself, from becoming victims of crime."
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Jane Thirsk
Watch Officer
Office: 01244 612725
Wilmslow Neighbourhood Policing Team 0845 458 6374
Knutsford Neighbourhood Policing Team 0845 458 6380
Macclesfield Neighbourhood Policing Team 0845 458 6371
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