|
Good Afternoon Residents, Here are some Top Tips to Keep Burglars Out:- The WIDEN Principle: Use Windows (locks), Interior (lights on timers), Doors (double locked), Exterior (lights and sensors), and Neighbours (watchful eyes).Defensive Planting: Grow prickly hedges like Hawthorn or Holly under ground-floor windows to create a painful natural barrier.Gravel Driveways: The loud crunch of gravel is a major psychological deterrent for thieves who want to remain silent.Secure the Side: Ensure side gates are the same height as your fence and kept locked with a heavy-duty padlock.Hide High-Value Tech: Don't leave laptops or car keys visible through windows; use "fishing" deterrents like letterbox cages.Digital Presence: Use a video doorbell to answer the door remotely, making it seem like you are home even if you're at work or out shopping.Historical Burglary Trends in the Area:- "Hanoi" Burglaries: "Hanoi-style" thefts, where burglars break into a house specifically to steal the keys to a high-value car parked on the drive.The "Gold" Targeted Thefts: Where burglaries specifically target high-purity gold jewellery, leading to police advice to use safety deposit boxes rather than home safes.Alleyway Gating: Many Victorian-style streets in local areas historically suffered from burglars using rear alleyways for access. This led to a massive council-led alley-gating project to block off these escape routes. What to do now:- Property Marking: Register your valuables on Immobilise.com so police can return them if recovered.Join a Watch: Look for a Neighbourhood Watch group in your specific street via OurWatch.org.uk.Free Advice: Contact the Wednesfield police team for a "Target Hardening" pack which often includes window alarms and stickers. Stay Safe. Regards. LPA - Dudley Central Team 2 ‘Working in partnership, making communities safer’ | 
