Be bright this winter and avoid becoming a victim of burglary
As the clocks turn back, leave a light on… and burglars in the dark!
Burglars are often opportunistic thieves and you can take steps to avoid becoming one of their victims this autumn and winter.
Try to make your home look occupied by using timer switches on lights and radios.
Make sure your front door is illuminated by using dusk to dawn lighting that comes on automatically.
Consider purchasing and installing a video doorbell, house alarm or CCTV system.
Close and double lock all doors and windows when going out, even if you’re only away from home for a short period of time. Those 10 or 15 minutes on the school run are all a burglar needs to break into your home.
Always double lock every door and window when you go to bed.
Keep all valuables and keys out of sight and away from doors, windows and letterboxes. If you are working from home, ensure your laptop is not on view.
When not in use, keep electronic car keys in a security pouch to prevent them being scanned by thieves to open and steal your car.
If you have a key safe, ensure it is not visible to people passing by, but anyone tampering with it can be seen.
Don’t give thieves the tools to burgle your house, ensure sheds and garages are locked and secure.
Don’t advertise you are away from home on social media. Ask a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your property.
Join a local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, visit www.ourwatch.org.uk
Encourage your friends and relatives to sign up to Thames Valley Alerts at www.thamesvalleyalert.co.uk
You can find further crime prevention advice at www.thamesvalley.police.uk
Please contact us if you have any information relating to burglary in your neighbourhood. Report online at www.thamesvalley.police.uk call us on 101 or in an emergency dial 999.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on free phone 0800 555 111.
