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Dear residents. As the evenings become darker, we would like to remind residents to take a few simple precautions to help keep themselves, their families and their property safe. 🏠Popping out of the house? Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you’re only going out for a few minutes!Double-lock any doorMake sure that any valuables are out of sight – this includes leaving packaging from outside of your houseKeep handbags away from the letterbox or cat flap and hide all keys including car keys, as a thief could hook keys or valuables through even a small openingNever leave car documents or ID in obvious places such as kitchens or hallwaysIn the evening, shut the curtains and leave lights onIf you’re out all day, then it’s advisable to use a timer device to automatically turn lights and a radio on at nightSet your burglar alarmMake sure the side gate is lockedLock your shed or garageLock your bike inside a secure shed or garage, to a robust fitting bolted to the ground or wall, like a ground anchor Going away? If you’re off on holiday and wish to post anything on social media, make sure your posts aren’t public and that they’re only seen by your friends – you don’t want potential burglars to know your house will be unattended!Leave lights and a radio on a timer to make your house appears occupiedAsk a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property, or you could join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme to keep in touch with those in your streetConsider asking your neighbours to close curtains after darkIf your driveway will be empty – you could also ask a neighbour to park on there to deter burglars from breaking inRemember to cancel newspaper and milk deliveries – you don’t want these piling up on your doorstep!🚗 Vehicle Security Ensure vehicles are locked and valuables are removed from sight.Do not leave bags, wallets, mobile phones or tools inside vehicles.Consider parking in a well-lit area or driveway where possible.🚶 Personal Safety Plan your route when walking in the dark and stick to well-lit areas where possible.Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to arrive.Avoid distractions such as using mobile phones while walking. Our website offers further crime prevention advice: Crime prevention advice | West Mercia Police If you need us, you can contact us directly by replying to this message and we will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also get in touch via our website: https://www.westmercia.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ Or in an emergency please call 999 📞 By working together and remaining vigilant, we can help keep our neighbourhoods safe throughout the darker months. Thank you for your support. PCSO Ellis 40420 
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