|
I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey. To prevent crime when going away on school holidays, make your home appear occupied, secure your property, and inform trusted individuals. Use timers for lights and radios, ask a neighbour to collect mail and deliveries, and consider installing a security system. Additionally, be mindful of what you share on social media and avoid broadcasting your absence.
Detailed Steps:
Make your home appear occupied:
Light and sound: Use timer switches to turn lights and a radio on and off at different times, creating the impression someone is home.
Curtains and blinds: Close curtains or blinds in the evening, or ask a neighbor to do so.
Don't advertise your absence: Avoid leaving notes saying you're away or posting holiday plans on social media where they can be seen publicly.
Secure your property:
Windows and doors: Ensure all windows and doors are locked, even when you're just popping out.
Reinforce weak points: Consider reinforcing door frames and glass panels with stronger materials.
Security systems: Install a visible burglar alarm and consider video doorbells or residential CCTV for added security.
Cancel deliveries: Arrange for newspaper and milk deliveries to be stopped or collected by a neighbor.
Inform trusted individuals:
Neighbour's Let trusted neighbour's know you'll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your property.
Local beat team: If you're going to be away for an extended period, consider informing your local police beat team.
Friends and family: Let close friends and family know your travel plans and who is watching your home.
Be mindful of social media:
Privacy settings: If you're sharing holiday photos, ensure your privacy settings are set so only close friends can see them.
Avoid broadcasting: Don't broadcast your location or travel plans on social media.
Secure valuable items:
Tools and toys: Put away valuable tools and toys from sheds and garages.
Property marking: Consider property marking valuable items, which can help in recovering them if stolen.
 While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you: Double lock your door every time you leave the house If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access. Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows. Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through. If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house. Make sure all valuables are out of sight. Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps. In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on. Set your burglar alarm Lock your shed or garage Mark, register or record your valuables.
Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe. If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Get Involved Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 
Please click here to complete the survey
|
