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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 Valley Ward Members,
We would like to remind everyone of the importance of keeping your home secure whenever you leave the property. Establishing a simple “exit routine” can help ensure you don’t overlook key steps that could prevent opportunistic crime.
Before You Leave Your Home
Please take a moment to follow these simple but effective precautions:
• Close and lock all doors and windows, even if you are only leaving for a short time
• Double-lock doors where possible
• Ensure valuables are kept out of sight
• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps to prevent “hooking”
• Avoid leaving car documents or identification in obvious places such as kitchens or hallways
• In the evening, close curtains and leave lights on if returning after dark
• If you’re out for extended periods, use timer devices for lights and radios
• Always set your burglar alarm
• Ensure side gates are locked
• Lock sheds and garages
• Secure bicycles inside a locked shed or garage using a strong ground or wall anchor
Going Away or On Holiday
If you’re planning to be away from home, please consider the following additional advice:
• Avoid posting publicly on social media about your absence—limit visibility to trusted friends
• Use timers for lights and radios to give the impression that someone is home
• Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property or consider joining a Neighbourhood Watch scheme
• You may wish to ask neighbours to close curtains at night or occasionally park on your driveway
• Cancel any regular deliveries such as newspapers or milk
Taking a few extra minutes to secure your home can make a significant difference in preventing crime.
If you have any concerns or would like further advice on home security, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
 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. Set your burglar alarm Lock your shed or garage Mark, register or record your valuables.
Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe. 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. 
Please click here to complete the survey
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