|
||
|
|
||
|
||
|
Christmas Burglary prevention advice |
||
Police warning: Secure your home and don’t let your presents get into the wrong hands this Christmas
With only 26 days to go until Christmas, A burglary campaign is focusing on protecting people from burglars who target homes filled with gifts over the festive season.
There is a trend for an increase in burglaries around the Christmas period so it is important that people take simple precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
In the run up to Christmas, criminals are on the lookout for signs of expensive purchases such as visible presents underneath Christmas trees, packaging on display or old electronic goods left outside suggesting new replacements have been purchased.
As market conditions have changed, the items most desired by burglars have also altered. Jewellery, cash and high value items that can be readily sold onto others are now more desirable than bulkier items that have little resale value. Smartphones, laptops, tablet computers and e-readers are all expected to sell well this December; their size and high value mean that they are also items on burglars’ Christmas lists.
Burglars can be both highly organised international criminals and opportunistic thieves but they all looking for high value items and an easy way in.
Anyone can become a victim of burglary but poor home security is the factor that makes people most vulnerable. Analysis of the Crime Survey 2009/2010 found that households without window locks and dead locks on outside doors were six times more likely to be burgled than those with these security fittings.
Here are some tips;
Don’t leave presents under the tree particularly if visible from windows or doors. Make use of the free and secure registration websites to register items of value such as I.T., mobile phones, cycles, electrical items such as TV’s, Games Consoles etc Dispose of present packaging carefully as empty boxes left outside can advertise that you have new and desirable goods inside your home. Never keep large amounts of cash at home. Ensure that all doors and windows are locked- use a dead or double lock on outside doors Lock up sheds and garages so thieves cannot gain access to ladders and tools which they could use to gain access to your home. Never leave keys anywhere near the front door; burglars know where to look. When you go out at night, consider leaving the lights on with curtains drawn so it looks like someone is home.
If you do arrive home and notice signs of a break-in: o Don’t go in or call out – the intruder could still be inside. o Go to a neighbour’s to call the Police. o Don’t touch anything or tidy up. | ||
Reply to this message | ||
|
|
