Keeping the burglars out!

UVPC doors are being targeted as some people appear to be pulling the handle into the 'up' position on their doors, but failing to actually lock the door with the key. This is potentially leaving residents vulnerable to burglars.

Please consider reviewing your home security in order to make your property less appealing for criminals. A recent spate of burglaries seems to have exploited vulnerabilities to the front door of homes during the night and suspects have entered to steal items close to the door itself.

Please make sure you lock and secure your outer doors properly. Do not leave keys in the door and remove valuables from sight around windows and doorways. It’s also a good idea to put electrical items such as laptops, tablets and phones out of sight when not in use during the night.

Many people have been left with damaged fencing following the storms we have recently suffered. This could allow easy access to your garden, and make it easier for potential thieves to spot whether anyone is at home.

Here are some handy tips!
• Ensure your side gate is locked to prevent access to the rear of your property.
• Ensure rear fencing is in good repair – and if you were unfortunate enough to have had damage in the recent storms, get repairs done as soon as you can.
• Lock all windows and doors, remembering to double lock UPVC doors properly (lift handle and turn key).
• Keep all keys out of reach and sight from the letterbox (remember a device could be used to hook keys through your letterbox).
• Do not leave ladders and garden tools in your garden; lock them away in your shed.
• Improve natural surveillance at the front of your property. A ten metre high hedge can provide great cover for someone up to no good!
• Consider fitting security lighting and a burglar alarm.
• Mark your property with your postcode and house number and register your property for free with www.immobilise.com
• Make use of timer switches to make the property appear occupied.
• Get a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property, and keep an eye out yourself for your neighbours. Don’t just turn a blind eye if you see something suspicious!
• Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
• Remove valuables from view of ground floor windows.
• Photograph your jewellery. Place your valuables against a plain background with a ruler next to it to give an idea of size. Also take a photo of yourself with the jewellery, so you can prove it has been in your possession.

Most importantly, don’t have sleepless nights! The chance of being the victim of crime in Hampshire and Isle of Wight really is very low. However we can all do our bit to make our communities an even less friendly place for criminals.

Remember, if you have information about any crime, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or click www.crimestoppers-uk.org where you can also give details anonymously.

For further Crimestoppers updates please follow me on Twitter @HantsCrimestopp

PC 741 Simon Wright