I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.
Dear Chingford Green Ward Members,
As we approach the Christmas Season period, we want to remind everyone that burglary rates have historically shown an increase at this time of year. We kindly encourage all households to take simple but effective steps to reduce opportunities for crime or become a victim of crime.
The Metropolitan Police advises on burglary prevention through securing entry points, using visual deterrents, and making your property less appealing to thieves. Key recommendations include locking all doors and windows, installing security devices like alarms, CCTV, and smart doorbells, and making your property harder to access by securing ladders, tools, and outbuildings. Additionally, the police suggest marking your valuables with forensic kits, making sure your property is visible and not providing hiding spots, and not advertising when you're away.
Securing your home and property:
Doors and windows: Lock all doors and windows, even when you are at home. Use high-security locks, consider anti-snap locks, and install window restrictors. For added security, consider adding a password scheme with utility companies for pre-arranged appointments.
Outbuildings: Secure sheds and garages with strong locks. Lock away ladders and tools, as these can be used by burglars to gain access to your home.
Valuables: Keep high-value items out of sight from windows. Use a forensic marking solution to make items traceable and register them for free on websites like Immobilise to help police identify stolen goods.
Deterrents and surveillance:
Lighting: Install motion-activated lights, especially in your garden. When away, use timer switches for indoor lights to give the impression that someone is home.
CCTV and doorbells: Consider installing visible security cameras or smart doorbells. These can deter potential burglars and provide evidence if an incident occurs.
Physical barriers: Plant thorny bushes along boundaries to make it harder to climb over fences. Avoid high hedges that can provide hiding places for burglars. Make sure pathways, especially driveways, are not silent, as gravel makes noise when someone approaches.
Be vigilant and report suspicious activity:
Report suspicious activity: If you see anything suspicious, report it to the police. You can call the non-emergency number 101 or use the online reporting tool on the Metropolitan Police website.
Avoid social media: Do not advertise when you are away on vacation or any other time your home will be empty.
Receive packages securely: Avoid leaving parcels in plain sight. Arrange for deliveries to be left in a secure location or with a trusted neighbour.
While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:
Double lock your door every time you leave the house
If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.
Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.
Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.
If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.
Make sure all valuables are out of sight.
Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.
In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.
Get Involved
Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you.
