Police in Newry Mourne and Down are asking the local community to help them tackle burglary over the coming weeks.
During May, police will focus on reducing burglary and hope to raise awareness of this crime and how householders can secure their home and property. Officers will conduct high visibility and anti-burglary patrols and aim to visit some of the more isolated in our communities to provide reassurance and crime prevention information.
District Commander, Superintendent Paul Reid explained: “We are asking all residents in the District to help us reduce burglary by protecting their property.
“Criminals are opportunistic so the best way to make your home secure is to take away the opportunity. Simple steps like locking your windows and doors, even when you are at home, can be a deterrent to a burglar.
“We have devised ten top tips to help you protect your home.”
Top ten tips to beat the burglar!
* Close and lock all doors and windows.
* Leave a light on if it will be dark before you get home and consider security lights. To a burglar a dark house is an empty house.
* Keep your valuables out of sight.
* Cancel milk or other deliveries if you will be away from home.
* Don’t leave car keys near your door, letterbox or windows.
* Always check who is at the door. Not sure? Don’t open the door.
* Set your alarm when going out and at night time. If you do not have an alarm consider installing one.
* Ask a neighbour or a friend to check your property and to remove post from the porch/hallway if it is going to be vacant.
* Inform police if your house is to be vacant for any length of time.
* Always keep sheds and outbuildings locked and secure ladders.
Superintendent Reid continued: “Over the coming weeks we will target known burglary hot spots. Information is vital in helping us direct our resources in the most appropriate way so I would ask all of you to be vigilant. If you notice something which doesn’t look quite right in your neighbourhood, phone us straight away. A report of suspicious activity or vehicles can often help us prevent a crime.”
Police can be contacted on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
