CRIME PREVENTION ADVICE

As a member of the public you can reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of crime by taking a few simple steps to protect your home and valuables.

Make it difficult for the burglar
Most burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves. In two out of ten burglaries they don't even have to use force - they get in through an open door or window. Look at your home through the burglar's eyes - are there places where they could break in unseen? Have you fitted strong locks on your doors and windows? Would they have to make a lot of noise by breaking glass.

Reduce the risk of burglary happening by making sure you've taken these simple precautions. For a relatively small outlay you could make your home more secure and buy peace of mind into the bargain.

Be a good Neighbour
Join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme - there are now over 130,000 in this country. Anyone can start up a Watch - call your local police for details. If you see anyone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, call the police.

Insurance
Are you fully insured? Insurance will relieve you of the financial worry of replacing stolen goods and many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for people with good home security.

Garages and sheds
Often full of expensive tools ideal for breaking into the rest of the house - and often left unlocked. Never leave a garage or garden shed unlocked especially if it has a connecting door to the house - a thief could get in and work on the inner door in privacy. Fit shed and garage doors with a strong padlock and make sure they are solid enough not to be kicked in. Lock ladders inside shed or garage, or chain to a sturdy bracket on an outside wall.

Extracts from BEAT THE BURGLAR - Make your home more secure, a Home Office Crime Prevention Publication.

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