Burglary in your area

Hello residents,

With Summer just around the corner, we take the opportunity to remind residents of Crime Prevention advice when it comes to protecting your home/property.

More detailed advice can be found at www.cleveland.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/

Protecting Your Home. 

·  Burglars are thieves who want to be in and out in the quickest time and steal the most valuable items which they can re-sell.

·  Research shows that the average burglar will spend 2 minutes attempting entry then approximately 5 minutes inside the property.

·  They will often seek out targets beforehand – checking on access, alarm systems, external lights and if any is at home.

·  In most forced entry burglaries entry will be gained at the rear at the weakest point, usually the patio/French doors or the kitchen window.

· Burglars may bring a tool to use (jemmy or screwdriver) or they may use tools you have left lying around.

·  Burglars will usually target a house that is unoccupied – to reduce the risk of being caught.

·  Having gained access and if they is working on his own, burglars will seek out the most valuable items which are easily transported.

·  If they has an accomplice to help carry and transport larger items, burglars will take flat screen TVs, video game consoles, computers.

·  Lastly, if you’ve left your keys lying around, burglars may also load your valuables into your car – then steal your car as well! 

Perimeter Security.

·  Most entry points for burglaries are at the rear of the premises.

·  Secure the rear of your property!

· Consider raising the height of your wall or fencing to 2 metres (6’6”) or increase the current height by using garden trellis, fence tops or other means.

·  Incorporate defensive planning using prickly buses or climbers.

·  Lock side and back gates using closed shackle padlocks (preferably two per gate).

·  Remove items a burglar could use to climb into your home – chain and lock your wheelie bin or ladders to a wall.

·  Fit ‘dusk till dawn’ external lights.

Kind Regards,