Protect Your Property

Protect Your Property

Protect Your Property and Help Keep York Safe

North Yorkshire Police is reminding residents across York to take simple but effective steps to protect their homes and property from opportunistic criminals.

Many thefts occur when offenders spot an easy opportunity, such as an insecure door, an unlocked vehicle, or valuables left on display. By taking a few precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Home Security

Always lock doors and windows, even when you are at home or only leaving for a short time.

Ensure UPVC doors are fully locked using the handle and key.

Keep valuables, keys, wallets and handbags out of sight from windows and doorways.

Consider installing timer switches on lights when away from home to give the impression that the property is occupied.

Garages and Outbuildings

Garages, sheds and outbuildings often contain valuable tools, bicycles and equipment that are attractive to thieves.

Fit strong locks and security bolts to doors and windows.

Secure expensive tools and bicycles to an anchor point where possible.

Mark and register valuable property to assist recovery if stolen.

Avoid leaving garage doors open or unlocked, even while carrying out work in the garden.

Vehicle Security

Always lock your vehicle and fully close windows when parked.

Remove keys and never leave a vehicle unattended with the engine running.

Do not leave valuable items, bags, mobile phones or sat navs on display.

Consider using steering wheel locks, tracking devices or other approved security products for higher-value vehicles.

If you own a keyless vehicle, store keys in a signal-blocking pouch to help prevent relay thefts.

Consider Additional Security Measures

Modern security devices can be an excellent deterrent and may provide valuable evidence should a crime occur. Residents may wish to consider:

CCTV systems covering entrances, driveways and vulnerable areas.

Video doorbells such as Ring doorbells or similar products.

Motion-activated security lighting around homes, garages and side access paths.

Smart home security systems that provide instant alerts to your mobile phone.

Well-lit and well-protected properties are far less attractive to criminals looking for an easy opportunity.

If you notice suspicious activity in your neighbourhood, please report it to North Yorkshire Police. In an emergency, always call 999. For non-emergency matters, call 101 or report online at www.northyorkshire.police.uk.

Together, by remaining vigilant and taking simple crime prevention measures, we can help keep York's communities safe.

North Yorkshire Police
Keeping North Yorkshire Safe

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Message Sent By
Helen Green
(Police, Police Constable, York NPT)