As the nights get darker – lock-up!

As the nights get darker – lock-up!

As we near the end of summer, and head into darker nights, it's important to take extra precautions to keep your home and vehicle safe. We often see a seasonal rise in burglary and car crime across the West Midlands through the autumn and winter months.

Criminals will use the cover of darkness to act. Most burglaries happen through insecure doors and windows, so where you can close them, and lock them even when you’re in. If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours ask them if they would like some help with their home security.

Here are some key steps you can take to protect yourself:

Home security:

1. Use timer switches for lights: Set indoor lights on timers to make it look like someone is home, even if you’re out.

2. Secure doors and windows: Double-check that all entry points, including porches and sheds, are securely locked—even when you're home.

3. Activate house alarms: If you have an alarm system, ensure its activated when you leave and use any zonal functions during the night.

4. Consider smart lighting: Motion-sensitive outdoor lights can help deter burglars by lighting up when someone approaches your property.

Vehicle safety:

1. Keep keys away from windows and doors: It’s easy to leave your keys in the lock or by the front door in plain sight. It only takes seconds for a thief to take advantage of this opportunity.
2. When leaving your vehicle at home, or out shopping, be sure to check your fob has done its job. Criminals can block the signals from your key fob to your vehicle so look out for other signs your vehicle is locked, such as folded in wing mirrors, flash of head lights, or the manufacturer app on your mobile.

3. Steering wheel locks: Consider using physical deterrents such as steering locks for added protection.

4. Keep valuables out of sight: Ensure that valuables, including car keys and fobs, are kept out of sight from windows and doors to reduce the risk of theft.

General Advice:

Be aware of your surroundings: Whether you’re at home or out, remain alert to any suspicious activity and report it to the police via 101 or 999 in emergencies.

Delivery safety: As parcel thefts increase in the lead-up to the festive season, provide specific instructions for delivery drivers to leave packages in a secure location if you’re not at home. You can also opt to pick up parcels from a locker or newsagents.

Look over your insurance policies: It’s important to regularly check and update your home and car insurance details to ensure all your valuables are covered in case of a burglary or theft.

Fireworks and bonfires can be enjoyable and a great opportunity to bring people together. However, setting off fireworks or spontaneous bonfires can also cause stress and disruption to residents, wildlife, and household pets. Fireworks can be used in the UK any time from 7am to 11pm with exceptions on Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, and Diwali.

These tips can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of burglary or vehicle crime during the winter months. For further crime prevention advice, check out our dedicated ‘darker nights’ crime prevention page: Darker Nights | West Midlands Police

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Message Sent By
Andrew Ryan
(West Midlands Police - Walsall LPA, Engagement & Consultation Officer, Walsall - Problem Solving Team)