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Good afternoon, Homeowners are being urged to make sure their homes are safe and secure as the darker nights get longer.
The advice follows five burglaries in the past week in rural locations in south Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
An investigation has been launched into the burglaries and enquiries are ongoing.
Burglars often take advantage of the cover of darkness, but there are several simple measures you can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
Install security lighting
• Security lights provide an additional layer of protection around your home.
• Burglars prefer to operate in the dark and often target properties that appear unoccupied.
• Well-positioned security lighting can make your home look occupied and remove the cover of darkness offenders rely on.
Keep your windows locked
• Taking a few moments to check your windows are securely locked can make a significant difference.
• As with your doors, make sure window locks are fitted and in good working order.
• Locking technology has improved considerably in recent years, so it may be worth seeking advice on whether your current locks could be upgraded.
Lock your doors, even when you're at home
• It can be easy to forget to lock up when you're in a rush, so make it part of your routine whenever you leave the house.
• Just as importantly, lock doors behind you when you return home.
• Opportunist burglars will sometimes try door handles hoping a property has been left unsecured.
Ask someone to keep an eye on your property
• If you're planning to be away overnight or for an extended period, let a trusted neighbour, friend or family member know.
• Ask them to keep an eye on your home, move any post from view and bring in any parcels left outside.
• Avoid making it obvious that nobody is at home.
Leave a light on
• Dark properties can be an obvious sign that nobody is home.
• Burglars are more likely to target homes that appear unoccupied.
• Leaving a light on or using timer or smart switches/bulbs to turn lights on automatically, can help create the impression that someone is in and discourage opportunist criminals.
Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Evesham and Pershore, Becky Williams, said: "We understand that news of burglaries can cause concern within the community, and we want to reassure residents that an investigation is underway and officers have increased patrols in the affected areas.
"While we are working to identify those responsible, there are also some simple but effective steps people can take to help protect their homes and deter opportunist criminals outlined above.
“Measures such as ensuring doors and windows are locked, using security lighting, setting lights on timers and asking trusted neighbours to keep an eye on your property if you are away can all make a significant difference.
"We would also encourage residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, people or vehicles to police.
“By working together and looking out for one another, we can help keep everyone safe and minimise opportunities for offenders to target homes.
“Information can be reported by calling 101, or online via Report a crime | West Mercia Police. Always call 999 in an emergency.”  | |
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