Seasonal crime reduction advice
The community safety partnership works vey closely with its partners to throughout the year to promote crime reduction messages.The following information maybe helpful for keeping yourself and your family safe at during the summer.
Now that the weather is warming up, Thames Valley Police are warning residents not to give burglars easy pickings.
Caroline Heard, Crime Reduction Adviser for Windsor and Maidenhead, says that leaving doors and windows open during the hot weather is the only invitation opportunist thieves need.
"Most burglars break into people's homes on the spur of the moment through unlocked doors and windows - even if you are in the garden or upstairs," she said. "So, with the current warmer weather, we feel it is appropriate to give residents a reminder about the risks of leaving windows and doors unlocked, especially at night.
"Burglars are less likely to smash a locked window as the sound of breaking glass attracts attention. But if doors and windows are left open, their job is easy and they can be in and out of your property in seconds. So, enjoy the light evenings, but be conscious of open doors and windows at all times."
Below are Caroline's top security tips for keeping burglars out of your house:
- All downstairs windows should be closed and locked. If any others need to be left open for ventilation, consider fitting a window limiter. If you do fit one, it's important to adapt your house fire plan accordingly.
- Don't leave your house unattended with the windows and doors unlocked - even if it is 'just for a minute' or you're out in the garden. Remember that home insurance may not be valid if premises are left insecure.
- Ensure that any access points such as side gates are locked. A simple padlock is often a sufficient deterrent.
- Before turning in for the night you should ensure that all doors are locked with a key, particularly any internal handle-operated locks on UPVC doors, which will not be secure unless locked with a key. You should then remove the key from the door, but remember to make sure that everyone in the house knows where it is if it's needed for an emergency exit.
- Easily accessible upstairs windows, every downstairs window and those which can't be seen from the street, should be fitted with key-operated window locks. Remember to remove keys from locked windows and doors and keep them out of sight.
- Don't leave car keys near to front doors where they can be 'fished' or 'hooked' out through the letterbox.
- Spare keys should never be left in a convenient hiding place e.g. under the door mat or in a flower pot - a thief will look there first.
- High-value items such as jewellery and credit cards should be kept out of sight - do not tempt the thief.
- Sheds and garages are full of tools which are ideal for breaking into the rest of the house - never leave a garage or garden shed unlocked.
- Consider looking at your house through a burglar's eyes - are there places where they could break in unseen?
- Consider installing a burglar alarm. If you already have one fitted, make sure you set the downstairs zones at night.
- Install the best security you can afford in order to delay or deter burglars. They really do prefer an easy target.
If you would like more information about how to avoid becoming a victim of burglary, please contact your local Crime Reduction Department on 0845 8 505 505. You can also report any suspicious activity via the same number, or in an emergency dial 999.
http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/crprev-cpra
