Protect your home from burglars
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
By Michael Bashford
Police are urging members of the public to be vigilant about protecting
their home from burglars and to be wary of bogus callers and rogue tradesmen.
Recent statistics showed that up to 50 percent of burglaries are caused by
leaving doors and windows open. Officers are now urging members of the
public not to make it easy for the criminals — always lock all doors and
windows when you leave your home, even if it is only for a short space of
time.
Have a burglar alarm fitted and use timer switches to turn lights on and off
when you are not at home — these can both act as deterrents to opportunist
thieves.
However, not all burglars break into homes. Distraction burglaries happen
when bogus callers pretend to be on official business from respectable
concerns such as utility companies — water, electricity and gas — or from
the council claiming they are calling to carry out urgent repairs. These
bogus callers depend on the good nature and good will of others, and will
arrive with a very plausible story, so don't be fooled.
To help prevent distraction burglaries, always keep your front and back
doors locked, even when you're at home. Before you answer, stop and think if
you are expecting anyone and use your chain and spy hole or look out of the
window to see if you recognise them.
Always ask callers for proof of identity — all genuine tradesmen should
carry a photographic identification card. Check this carefully and if you
are unsure, telephone the company the caller claims to represent.
Treat every stranger with caution, and if you become concerned in any way,
close and lock the door and contact your local police immediately for
assistance.
Anyone who would like further crime prevention advice should contact police
on 0845 600 8000.
