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With warmer weather on its way, Hampshire Constabulary is urging homeowners to think carefully before leaving their homes unlocked and insecure.
The advice comes after 14 properties across the Andover, Eastleigh and New Forest districts were burgled over the Easter weekend.
Four homes in the Western Operational Command Unit (OCU) area, (which covers Andover, Eastleigh and the New Forest), had been left insecure with doors and windows unlocked or open.
Western OCU Priority Crime Detective Inspector, Dave Brown, said: “It is important that we try and educate people so that they don’t become victims of crime.
Burglary can be particularly upsetting for those involved and insecure premises are an open invitation for burglars.”
A large proportion of “walk in” burglaries occur during the summer months because householders forget to lock front doors and spend time in the back garden.
Thieves can easily come into properties and steal handbags and small items from hallways or lounges without anyone knowing.
Residents are also being reminded about the importance of marking property and valuables so that items can be easily traced and identified in the event of any theft.
The most effective method of marking valuables is through engraving. Mark items with your post code and house number or name.
Hampshire Constabulary is offering these crime prevention tips:
• The majority of burglars will target homes that look unoccupied.
• Ensure that you have good window locks fitted and use them.
• Both front and back doors should have good quality locks.
• If you are going away on holiday make sure a friend or neighbour knows where you are. If someone is coming into your house to water plants etc, NEVER leave keys to your property under doormats or flower pots. Burglars know all the hiding places.
• If you have a burglar alarm, your house is less likely to be targeted.
• Ensure all tools and ladders are chained up and securely locked away. Many burglars will use items in your own garden to break into your house.
• Leave lights on a timer switch when you go on holiday, so it appears that someone is home.
• Cancel milk or newspapers and ensure mail isn’t visible on the doormat so burglars don't know you are away.
• Use reflective tape or a black binbag to tape up the bottom of a glass front door so prying eyes can’t see through.
• NEVER close curtains when you are away on holiday. Houses with curtains drawn day and night tell a burglar that you are away.
For further advice and information on home security, ring Hampshire Police on 0845 045 45 45 and ask to speak to your local Crime Prevention Officer. |
