Local crime updates

Good afternoon Squirrels Heath ward residents,

We hope everyone had a happy holidays and a happy new year to everyone.

After looking at our crimes in our area since the last message before Christmas, we unfortunately have had two thefts of motor vehicles and one attempted burglary, in addition to an interference with a motor vehicle. We will be conducting patrols in the area within the next few days as well as visiting the affected addresses. If you see us out and about please don't hesitate to approach us if you have any questions or concerns. Alternatively call 101 in an non emergency or 999 if it is an emergency. 

In part of the Mets efforts to recover stolen goods to the rightful owners, we are using a system called IMMOBILISE. This system allows us to trace back who owns stolen goods such as mobile phones, gadgets, tools etc. Registering your devices is completely free unless you opt in for tagging markers which will come at a cost. You can register anything onto the system if the item has a serial number. For more information please visit www.immobilise.com . 

Please find below some useful crime prevention advice. This could be very useful in the darker months coming.

Home Crime Prevention

•Leave a light on if it will be dark before you return home or install timer switches on lamps.

•Consider installing a visible burglar alarm or CCTV. Whatever your budget will allow.

•Always LOCK windows and doors with the key. Doors that are not locked with the key are insecure.

•In the garden ensure any dark areas have sensor lights. Planting spikey plants such as pyracantha can deter access in vulnerable areas.

•Keep tools locked in sheds or outbuildings. Don’t let a burglar use your tools to gain access.

•Always check who’s at the door before you open it. Use your door chain. Don’t open it if you feel anxious or scared. Genuine callers won’t mind having their identity checked. If you are unsure call the police or a neighbour

Vehicle Crime Prevention

•Protect your car keys: Keep keys with you at all times and out of sight of windows or letterboxes.  If you have a keyless vehicle make sure you keep them safely stored in a signal blocker bag and that you check to make sure the bag is working regularly.

•Consider adding secondary security to your vehicle such as an immobiliser, alarm or a visual deterrent such as a steering wheel lock. If you have a driveway consider a parking post.

•Remove all valuable items including small change.

•Did you know it is actually illegal to leave your vehicle running unattended while you de-ice, or warm it up in the cold weather?  If someone takes it while left like this your insurer won’t pay out because you won’t be covered.

Please follow the link for up-to-date information and guidance regarding thefts, burglaries etc.

www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/

In addition to this, if you have neighbours who are not on Met Engage, please refer them as this could give them advice on how to keep homes and vehicles secure, our public engagement dates for residents and businesses to come and speak to us about local concerns and also receive alerts from us if we have a public appeal.