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Don't Leave a Window of Opportunity for Thieves
| Published: 2nd July 2009 21:44 |
Don't leave a window of opportunity for thieves - warning follows arrests
The warning comes after a number of burglaries were reported in which thieves got in through open windows during the recent spell of hot weather.
In the past week, there have been reports of burglaries in Almondsbury, Bradley Stoke, Filton, Kingswood, Little Stoke, Patchway, Stoke Gifford and Yate.
The thieves have been stealing small valuables like mobile phones, jewellery and wallets. They will also take laptops and televisions and if they find your keys could make off in your car.
In the past month, officers have made a series of arrests in connection with separate burglaries. A 24-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy have been charged and a 36-year-old man is on bail pending further enquiries.
DI Dave Gill said: "Obviously, prevention is better than cure when it comes to crime - no one wants to go through the distress of a burglary.
"We are stepping up patrols and urging people to look at their homes with the eyes of a burglar in order to make them safer.
"With fewer than half a per cent of people in South Gloucestershire falling victim to burglary over the past year, it is a safe place to live, but we can all play a part in making it safer and stronger."
The main advice is:
- Always lock windows and doors - especially when you go out, at night. If you are in the garden, keep them closed and locked
- Never leave keys in the lock
- Keep your car keys with you or hide them away
- If you have a burglar alarm, always set it at night as well as when going out
- Don't leave valuables in view of windows
- Keep small high-value items like your mobile phone, wallet, handbag and jewellery out of sight
- Fit extra security devices like lighting, alarms and window locks
- Make sure fences and gates are sturdy with good-quality locks and hinges
- Join Neighbourhood Watch - it promotes a sense of community and can make you less likely to be burgled
- Mark your valuables with your post-code and register them on http://www.immobilise.com/. Property-marking may deter a thief and if not will help police investigations
- Check out http://www.secureyourmanor.org/ for more information and advice
Victims of crime and people aged 65 and over can also request a visit from the Bobby Van. A specially-trained carpenter with a mobile workshop will assess security needs at their home and install quality security devices.
More information on the Bobby Van is available from the police website, http://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/ or by calling 0845 456 7000 or can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name and never trace your call.
Anyone with information about those responsible for burglary in South Gloucestershire can contact the burglary team at Staple Hill Police Station on 0845 456 7000. Anyone who can help should contact us through our secure Crimestoppers contact form at https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/crimestoppers/ContactForm.aspx
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