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DON’T GIVE BURGLARS AN OPEN INVITATION
UP TO half of all household burglaries in Hertfordshire can happen without the culprits needing to break in. They have just found an open window or unlocked door and walked inside.
In many reported dwelling burglaries the building targeted was insecure. Officers are now putting the Blue Light on burglary and are making a plea to residents to ensure their property is locked and secure.
Radio advertisements are being broadcast over the next month (on HertBeat FM, Chiltern FM and Mercury FM) reminding people to lock up. And crime prevention advice is being issued through Neighbourhood Watches (see Editor’s Note 1) and is available on the internet at www.herts.police.uk.
Head of Crime Reduction for Hertfordshire Constabulary, Superintendent Steve Hughes, said: “We are determined to see a reduction in the number of burglaries suffered by residents in our towns and villages. Many of these crimes can be easily avoided by ensuring doors are properly locked and windows closed. Window locks, alarms and other security measures are also advisable for even better protection.”
He explained: “Burglars are often opportunistic, looking for an insecure building to get into to steal property and ignoring the places where they might have to force their way in. If your home, garage, shed or outbuilding is properly secure, the risk of it being burgled is greatly reduced – there’s always a much easier target.”
With Spring in the air people may be more tempted to leave doors and windows open so remember to close them before you go out.
Police advise the following:
Lock all doors and keep windows closed, preferably locked, when you are out
Fix heavy duty locks with back plates to sheds and garages – master locksmiths can advise on the best locks to use
Consider installing alarms and security lighting
Don’t leave ladders and tools outside (burglars could use them to help break in)
Secure your rear garden – shut and lock any gates and keep fences maintained
For more advice about security please contact a Crime Prevention Officer by calling your local police station or check out Hertfordshire Constabulary’s website.
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