Burglaries

In the afternoon of 24/01/26 in Great Rollright, a silver BMW made failed to stop for police officers.

At this time it is unknown why the vehicle failed to stop, however, it is suspected that it may be involved/linked to recent burglaries in the rural areas of Chipping Norton.

Please be aware that burglars are targeting large properties in rural areas.

1. Lock It Like You Mean It

·  Always lock doors and windows — even when you’re home.

·  Use high-quality door locks and consider anti-snap cylinders.

·  Secure patio doors with additional locks or bars. 

2. Light It Up

·  Install motion-sensor lights at the front, back and side of your property.

·  Keep your entrance well-lit so intruders feel exposed. 

3. Install Visible CCTV

·  Cameras act as a huge deterrent.

·  Choose systems that stream straight to your phone so you get instant alerts.

·  Make sure cameras are clearly visible from the street.

4. Strengthen Entry Points

·  Reinforce door frames and hinges.

·  Fit window locks on all accessible windows.

·  Use laminated or security film on vulnerable glass.

5. Make It Look Occupied

·  Use timer switches on lamps when you’re out.

·  Cancel deliveries and ask a neighbour to collect post.

·  Park a car on the drive when possible. 

6. Remove Hiding Places

·  Trim hedges and bushes near doors and windows.

·  Keep ladders and tools locked away.

7. Alarm Systems Work

·  Even a basic alarm system adds a strong layer of protection.

·  Display alarm signage — burglars prefer easy targets.

8. Know Your Neighbours

·  Join or create a neighbourhood watch.

·  Look out for each other’s homes and report anything suspicious.

9. Protect Your Keys

·  Never leave spare keys outside.

·  Don’t leave car keys visible near the front door. 

10. Use Smart Tech

·  Smart doorbells, smart lights and smart alarms allow you to monitor your home from anywhere.  

11. Use a safe.

Safe advice:

Use a burglary rated safe.

Bolt to solid concrete (If it’s not bolted, it’s portable, even a 100kg safe can be dragged.)

Bad hiding spot for a safe, main bedroom, under the bed, wardrobe floor or garage.

Good hiding spot for a safe, behind built in furniture or behind a false panel.

Reinforce the room, not just the safe.

Keep a cheap decoy safe semi visible and hide the real safe elsewhere. This works surprisingly well.