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Dear residents There has been a spate of burglaries in the central area where homes have been targeted for their gold and jewellery. The offenders have entered the houses when they are unoccupied and carried out untidy searches where items have been stolen. Here are some tips to keeping you houses safe đĄď¸ 1. Secure Boundaries & VisibilityFront fences should be around 1âŻm high to maintain visibilityâthis removes hiding places for intruders. Taller fences at the rear are OK, ideally topped with trellis, thorny plants, or plastic spikes to discourage climbing. [westmercia.police.uk], [bewdleytow...cil.gov.uk]Use gravel driveways or pathsâthey make noise when walked on, alerting you to someone approaching. [westmercia.police.uk]
đ 2. Strengthen Doors & WindowsFit certified locks on all doors and windows. Double/deadlocks are recommended on external doors; ensure all entry points are lockedâeven when youâre home. [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]Install window sensor alarms, or at least lockable windows, to deter opportunistic entry. [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]
đˇ 3. Install Effective CCTV & AlarmsUse CCTV with smartphone alertsâposition cameras for facial recognition. Always ensure systems comply with legal requirements by using accredited installers. [westmercia.police.uk]Fit audible burglar alarms with visible external boxes on both front and rear of the property to deter criminals. [westmercia.police.uk]
đĽ 4. Lighting & Occupancy SignalsSensor-operated exterior lights help deter burglars by illuminating their approach. [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]Use timers or smart bulbs indoors to mimic occupancy when you're out, such as during evenings or holidays. [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]
𧞠5. Avoid Advertising ValuablesRemove visible packaging from expensive items (e.g., TVs, laptops) from outside before bin collectionâthis reduces temptation. [westmercia.police.uk], [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]Keep valuables out of sight, including car keys, laptops, phones, and chargers. [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]
đď¸ 6. Mark & Record Your PropertyUse UV forensic marking or etching with postcode/house number on valuables. Display stickers to signal your belongings are traceable. [westmercia.police.uk]Register items (including bicycles) on Immobilise or similar databases, logging serial numbers and photos. [westmercia.police.uk]
đĄ 7. Secure Outbuildings & Remove ToolsLock sheds, garages, gates, and store tools/sturdy items indoors so they canât be used to break in. [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]Donât leave wheelie bins or ladders near fencesâthey can be used to gain entry. [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]
đ¤ 8. Distraction Burglary AwarenessBe wary of unexpected callers claiming to be officials, tradespeople, or delivery staffâalways ask for ID and verify through independent contact. [westmercia.police.uk]
đď¸ 9. Community VigilanceInform trusted neighbours before going away so they can watch your home, take in post, and alert you to anything suspicious. [bromsgrove...iser.co.uk], [wedontbuycrime.co.uk]Join or engage with your local Neighbourhood Watchâcommunity reporting significantly deters criminal activity. [westmercia.police.uk]
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10. Stay Informed & PreparedUnderstand that burglars are often opportunistic, targeting easy entry points or return visits if home security hasn't been upgraded. [westmercia.police.uk], [westmercia.police.uk]Regularly review and update securityâwindows, doors, alarms, lighting, valuables markingâto stay one step ahead. [westmercia.police.uk], [westmercia.police.uk]
Implementing these layered security measuresâfrom physical barriers and smart tech to community vigilanceâdramatically reduces the risk of burglary. Stay alert, stay secure! Please stay vigilant - report any suspicious behaviour via 999 if its in progress, 101 or online reporting via the West Mercia Police website. Kind regards |
