Lancashire’s police officer are urging residents to lock up to keep burglars out in line with clocks going back on Sunday 27th October.
The advice comes as part of Operation Julius, the countywide burglary crackdown and due to nights going darker sooner in the run up to Christmas.
Traditionally, there is a rise in burglaries in the winter period, especially in the run up to Christmas as people are buying their festive gifts, which potential burglars are aware of.
Insecure windows and doors are still a common factor, with around one in three burglaries taking place as a result of property that has been left open or not secured properly.
To avoid becoming a victim of burglary, residents are advised to follow the following crime prevention advice:
Lock up: Always make sure your windows and doors are locked, including side gates. Fit an alarm system, ensure it’s activated and add strong locks to sheds, garages and other outbuildings.
- Keep it ‘safe’: Consider putting valuables in a secure safe.
- Con the criminal: Think about leaving a light on when you go out. Timers will turn lights on and off at pre-set times.
- Light up: Consider fitting outdoor security lighting.
- Remove the means: After the autumn tidy in the garden make sure that all garden tools and equipment are locked away. Spades are a favourite of burglars who use them to force windows and patio doors.
- Increase your chances of getting your property back: Security mark property using a permanent UV marker pen. If your property is recovered, the police are more likely to be able to get it back to you.
- Join forces: Join a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in your area and if there isn’t one, consider starting one.
- Be in the know: Residents can sign up to Lancashire Constabulary’s free messaging service, In the Know, to receive crime alerts – including about burglaries – relating to their area.
- Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight: Electronic devices left on show in vehicles, such as sat navs, MP3 players, mobile phones and laptop computers, account for the majority of goods stolen from vehicles.
Superintendent Damian Darcy said: “We tend to see a rise in burglaries at this time with the darker nights and opportunist thieves knowing that people are starting to buy Christmas gifts for their loved ones.
“Whilst this is something we all do and should continue to do, I would advise people to take precautions and do your best to keep the burglars out by ensuring that all your doors and windows are secure and locked, when you aren’t in the room as these are open invites to thieves.
“I would also urge the public to follow our top tips to beat the burglar in their area, remain vigilant and if they spot anything suspicious, call us on 101 or 999 in an emergency.”
• For information on In the Know, or neighbourhood watch schemes, visit www.lancashire.police.uk