No free treats for burglars – A&S Police dark nights advice
- Posted on
A&S Police have been in contact to say that the drawing in of dark nights and the predictability of many people heading out to Bonfire night provides the perfect conditions for criminals intent on treating themselves to others’ property.
Sadly, burglaries tend to rise across the country around this time of year as a result, so residents are advised to review their own home security before heading out.
Have you …
• Locked your windows and doors – even if just at a neighbour’s house or in the garden?
Remember to double-lock UPVC doors.
• Secured even your smallest windows such as skylights? A thief can get through any gap larger
than a human head.
• Removed keys from locked windows and put them out of sight?
• Made your house look/sound occupied? Using timer switches on lights, radios and other
appliances can help.
• Taken valuables out of sight of windows and stored them away safely?
• Set your house alarm?
• Checked side gates are locked securely?
• Got your keys? Never leave them under a door mat or flowerpot or other places where burglars
can easily find them.
• Locked your car keys away or taken them with you? Opportunist burglars will otherwise have
instant access to your car.
• Not shared your plans for an evening out on your social media channels.
A&S Police’s burglary investigations lead Chief Inspector Karen Corrigan says that even though these steps are quick and simple to action, they often open the door to opportunistic thieves if not taken.
“While many people will be out enjoying the fun of Bonfire displays and parties this week, we know
that criminals will be taking advantage of homes being empty. So, we’re urging people to please
look at their properties from a thief’s perspective and help prevent the devastation, trauma and
loss that results from being burgled. Our officers will be out and patrolling to help keep our communities safe, but we need everybody’s eyes and ears, so if you see anyone acting suspiciously or suspect a crime is in progress, please contact us immediately.”
Tell the Police about any suspicious activity as it happens by calling 101. Remember to pass on vehicle
details and descriptions. If you think a crime is underway, it’s always 999.
IMPORTANT – If you suspect you are being burgled, call 999 straight away and wait in a safe
place for help to arrive. Do not enter your property if there is a chance the suspect is still inside.
For more information on how to protect your house from burglary see A&S Police’s advice page on
securing your property – https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/crime-preventionadvice/protecting-your-home-and-property/ensure-your-property-is-secure/
SPC’s ‘Meet Your Community Police Officer’ event takes place on Thursday 3 November. All Saltford residents welcome, no need to book. Please find details on our website here.