Burglary prevention advice to East Cheshire residents

 

Residents in East Cheshire are being urged to brighten up their homes during the dark winter nights.

Residents across the eastern area are being urged to make their homes look ′lived in′ to avoid being victim to opportunist thieves.

Traditionally at this time of year there tends to be an increase in the number of burglaries reported to police as homes are left in darkness whilst people are out at work.

Officers are urging residents across the area to remain security conscious and to take steps to reduce their chances of falling foul of thieves.

DI Nigel Groom head of the burglary team for the eastern area, said: "Many burglars are attracted to homes that have been left in darkness.

"We are urging residents to take a few simple steps to ensure their home is secure − especially if you are going to be late home from work or out for the night."

Residents are being encouraged to reassess their current security measures in a bid to reduce their chances of being targeted:

• Buy timer switches for lights, radios and other appliances to give the impression that someone is at home − even if they are not.
• Make sure all windows and doors are closed and secured at all times.
• Keep desirable items out of view to passers-by - valuables should not be visible from windows and doors in your home.
• The same applies to valuable items stored away in garages or sheds - ensure that garages and sheds are locked with strong padlocks and, ideally, fitted with an alarm.
• Install outside lights - dusk till dawn lights with a low wattage bulb will give a constant light when needed. They switch on as it gets dark and turn off when it gets lighter.
• Consider other security measures in your garden such as motion sensitive lights, using gravel, which is noisy if anyone steps on it, and planting prickly bushes.
• Remember to be a good neighbour - if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area - report it to police immediately.

DI Nigel Groom added: "We are committed to tackling burglaries in East Cheshire and will do all we can to ensure that those involved in this type of crime are caught and punished.

"Residents across the area can join in the fight against this type of crime. Neighbours are being urged to keep a watchful eye on their own neighbourhood and look out for people acting suspiciously in their area.

"Be on your guard and if you see anyone acting suspiciously then please report it to the police immediately - even the smallest amount of information can be useful when piecing together a case."