Police Advice on keeping your property secure

Police in E District are reminding householders to keep their homes, outbuildings and vehicles safe and secure.

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Police are urging people to close windows, lock doors and do not leave garden or sports equipment outside overnight. Open windows, open doors, vacant properties and unsecure sheds are easy targets and will attract thieves. Police would advise local residents to follow these simple steps to help reduce the chance of becoming a victim of opportunistic crime:

- Do not leave windows open when you are out or away overnight.

- Never leave doors unlocked.

- Never leave garages and sheds unlocked.

- Use substantial padlocks on shed doors, dead head vulnerable screws on hinges and bolts.

- Cover shed and garage windows on the inside so that criminals can’t see in.

- Consider installing an alarm and mark all of your property so that it is easily identifiable.

- Consider securing valuable ornaments or statues by cementing them to a footing.

- Protect your perimeters by ensuring gates and railings are secure.

- Chain bicycles together and secure the chain to a solid structure.

- Secure and notify Police of vacant properties.

Do not make your home an easy target.

Also be aware of your local area and anything which looks out of place. It is essential that you contact police on the non-emergency number 0845 600 8000 if you notice anything untoward, no matter how insignificant it may seem. If you notice any suspicious vehicle, take a note of the registration number and make and model of the car and pass this information on to police. Always report anything suspicious.