Smithswood Newsletter

Smithswood Newsletter

Here is your weekly round-up of what has been going on in and around your local area. 

Smith’s Wood

Burglary – There have been no reports of burglary between 04 November 2026 and 12 November 2026.

Theft of motor vehicle – There have been four reports of Theft of motor vehicle between 04 November 2026 and 12 November 2026.

On 03/11/2026, a motorbike was stolen from Elva Croft. 

On 10/11/26, a vehicle was stolen from Austin Croft. 

On 10/11/26, a vehicle was stolen from Windward Way. 

Theft from a motor vehicle – There have been no reports of Theft from a motor vehicle between 04 November 2026 and 12 November 2026.

On 05/11/26, a theft from motor vehicle was committed on Falkland Way. 

Interference with a motor vehicle – There have been no report of Interference with a motor vehicle between 04 November 2026 and 12 November 2026.

Officers from the Smiths wood neighbourhood team are continuing to conduct proactive patrols and take preventative measures to tackle vehicle crime, across all Smiths wood, Kingshurst and Castle Bromwich. 

Simple Steps to Keep Your Vehicle Safe – 

Keyless ignition owners should use a Faraday pouch for their fob. All drivers should consider a steering lock, park in well – lit visible areas, lock their vehicle, remove valuables and ensure windows, sunroof, and wing mirrors are closed/ folded. Unfolded mirrors may signal an unlocked car to thieves.

What has been happening? Good news –

Keep burglars out

Protect your home against opportunist burglars by remembering to ‘lock up’ and check on your neighbours.

Dark evenings can provide perfect cover for burglars who can easily spot an open window in an unoccupied room, see your valuables through open curtains or blinds, or try their luck with an unlocked door while you are distracted by fireworks.

Here are some crime prevention tips to help keep your property safe:

· Try to make your house look as occupied as possible when you are not there.

· Do not leave your house and vehicle keys in the lock or on a side table in view of a window.

· Do not leave items in open porches that could be used to enter your home, for example, curved-handled umbrellas to open doors or keys through letterboxes

· Always lock your windows and doors when you are in. If you have UPVC front doors take extra care to lock these as soon as you get into your property.

· Check your UPVC or Euro cylinder door lock to see if it is snap resistant. It should be stamped with a three-star Kite Mark. If it is not, you get the lock changed to either a SS312 Diamond Approved Cylinder, TS007 3 Star Kitemarked Cylinder, or a 1 Star Cylinder with 2 Star handle for maximum protection. 

· Cancel newspapers and milk if you are going away for a few days and ask a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your property. They can help by pushing post sticking out of the letterbox inside fully or checking garden gates are shut.

Helpful links

-Crime prevention advice | West Midlands Police

-Keep burglars out of your property | West Midlands Police

-How safe is your flat? | Crime Prevention | West Midlands Police

Dates for your diaries – 

If you see any suspicious activity in your areas, please make us aware and we can act upon any information we receive. And, for daily updates kindly follow us on X.com. @SmithswoodWMP