Half Term Crime Prevention Advice

Half Term Crime Prevention Advice

Dear Residents,

With the half-term holiday approaching, many people will be heading away for an autumn break. Before you leave, please take a few simple precautions to help keep your home secure.

Properties that appear unoccupied for a period of time, with no lights switching on, no vehicles on the driveway, and little or no activity, can sometimes attract unwanted attention from opportunistic criminals.

Before you go away, please consider the following:

Cancel any regular deliveries such as milk, newspapers, or parcels.

Use timer switches to turn lights on and off at different times.

Consider setting a timer for a radio, particularly a talk radio station, to create the impression that someone is at home.

Ask a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member to keep an eye on your property.

Ensure all doors and windows are locked and secure before you leave.

Avoid advertising your absence on social media until you have returned home.

If possible, ask someone to remove any post that accumulates behind your door.

Taking a few minutes to prepare your home before you leave can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

We hope you have a safe and enjoyable half-term break.

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Sally Wheeler
(Metropolitan Police, PCSO, Chiswick Homefields)