Burglary

Burglary

Dear Harborne Residents,

Burglary: what we’re doing and advice for keeping your property safe

We want to make you aware that over the past few weeks, there has been a slight increase in burglaries and attempted burglaries across the Harborne area. With this in mind, we would like to remind you of the importance of keeping your property secure at all times.

Research shows that homes near a recent burglary can be at a slightly higher risk for a short period following the incident. While the likelihood remains low, we are working hard to prevent further offences. We have increased patrols in your area and are working closely with the community to keep everyone safe.

You can also help reduce the risk by following the advice below:

Immediate security tips

Always close and lock doors and windows when you’re out or in another part of the house

Make your home look occupied when you’re away. Use timer switches in different rooms if possible

If you have an alarm system, ensure it is working and set whenever you leave

Keep tools and ladders stored securely and out of reach

Lock all side gates, as well as your garage and/or shed, when not in use

Keep valuables out of sight from windows and doors

Let trusted neighbours know if you’re going away, so they can keep an eye on your property

If you are going away, avoid posting about it on social media until you return

Make sure you’re in to receive parcels or request for any deliveries to be made to a secure locker or parcel shop, so your parcels aren’t left outside

Long-term security measures

Fit British Standard deadlocks or anti-snap locks to external doors

Install locks on all windows

Secure patio doors with purpose-made locks

Consider installing cameras or smart doorbells for added deterrence

Keep hedges and fencing low at the front of your property to improve visibility

Fit external security lighting or low-wattage garden lights

Mark your valuables with your postcode and house/flat number using a UV pen

Your CCTV helps us to solve crimes in your area

It takes just 60 seconds to help us solve crimes in your area. Simply register your CCTV and doorbell cameras for free on our secure CCTV map.

If a crime happens and officers think it was captured on your camera, you’ll receive a text or email containing a secure link to upload the images. You’re in total control of what you send.

Visit westmidlands.police.uk/cctv-registry to find out more.

Contacting police and more advice

If you have any information about the recent burglary, please call 101. Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Please do also contact police if you see any suspicious activity. Call 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.

For more crime prevention advice, visit: westmidlands.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime

Don’t forget, you can also get the latest updates from your local police straight into your inbox. Sign up today for free at wmnow.co.uk

Thank you for taking the time to read this message and for helping us keep our community safe.

Kind regards,

PCSO 30847 Ant Henry

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Anthony Henry
(Police, PCSO, Harborne BWGC)