PSNI issue Caravan security advice

With the holiday season upon us and people making more use of their caravans, E District Crime Prevention Officers are advising anyone who owns or uses a caravan to take steps to protect their property and valuables.

Paula Crowe, Crime Prevention Officer for Armagh and Newry, said: “Caravans may be more vulnerable than houses but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your property secure.

“Many people are making the most of their caravans with the recent spell of good weather and when they do, they may take equipment like televisions, and games consoles with them.

"Caravan owners should take a few practical crime prevention steps to reduce your chances of being a victim of crime."

LOCK UP

Always close doors, windows and any skylights whenever you leave your caravan even if its only for a short time. Always lock your caravan and take the keys with you .

DON’T LEAVE ANYTHING VALUABLE ON DISPLAY

Take all your valuables with you when you leave the caravan or at least put them away from sight.

LEAVE YOUR CURTAINS OPEN

Possible intruders can see there are no valuables lying about. Site security can also check out your caravan easily. Even open cupboard doors at the end of the season can help deter a thief.

USE AN ALARM

Have a reliable alarm fitted and turn it on when you leave your caravan .

USE SECURITY MARKINGS

Where possible, valuable items such as laptops and televisions should be marked with your postcode and house number using a UV marker. This helps police identify the owner of the recovered property.

IF YOU HAVE A SHED BESIDE YOUR CARAVAN

Keep your shed in good condition and fit a good close shackle padlock to the door. Valuables inside should also be marked with your postcode. Think about chaining larger items such as bicycles together when they are not being used- it is much more difficult for a thief to carry away lots of large heavy items.

GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOURS

Keep an eye on each others caravans when they are vacant. Don’t be afraid to report anything suspicious to the site manager or the PSNI immediately.

If you notice anything untoward in your caravan park, note down any important details such as a description or vehicle registration and contact police immediately on 999. Officers will follow up on your call and your prompt information could prevent a crime from occurring.

Anyone who would like further crime prevention advice on this or any other subject can contact their local crime prevention officer on 0845 600 8000.

Holiday home advice

Police in E District are reminding homeowners to be mindful of their home security especially if they are going on holiday or leaving their premises over night.

Householders can take sensible steps to protect their home and their belongings against thieves. In more than 50% of domestic burglaries reported to police, the criminal has gained entry to the property via an unlocked door or window. It is imperative therefore that people remember to close and lock windows and doors at night or when the house is unoccupied. Do not make it easy for the would-be burglar.

Consideration should also be given to installing a home security system or, where one is already fitted ensuring it is primed at night time or when you are away from home. Security lighting around the perimeter of your property can also act as a deterrent.

Remember to cancel milk or paper deliveries. It is also wise to keep valuables out of sight. A safe is a wise investment for securing precious items such as jewellery, credit cards or financial documents. Don't leave keys in plain view or in a door lock. Do not advertise the fact that you are leaving home and don't post details of your holiday on social media sites.

It is not just occupied houses that can be vulnerable - vacant properties or homes that are under refurbishment can also be susceptible to passing criminals. Thieves will make off with whatever they can get their hands on even if it means stripping the house of the copper piping. It is important for owners to make regular checks of their properties.

E District police officers will continue to address burglary and raise awareness of crime prevention however the community can also play a part by looking out for neighbours, reviewing household security, making sure that doors and windows are locked and by reporting any suspicious activity immediately to police.

If you require any further crime prevention advice, please contact your local crime prevention officer on 0845 600 8000.