SUMMER has officially arrived and while thoughts turn to holidays, barbecues and the long, warm evenings ahead, residents are being reminded to remain vigilant against burglaries.
The summer months are notorious for seeing an increase in burglaries, which can occur while the occupants are away or even while they are at home or in their back garden.
Speaking on Monday (22), LPA Commander for Wokingham, Chief Inspector Robert France said that it only takes a few seconds for opportunity burglars to break into a house that isn’t fully secure.
Ch Insp France said: “The summer is a time for people to enjoy themselves, but we ask that they remain cautious, especially when it comes to securing their homes.
“We tend to open windows and doors a lot more in the summer to let the air in, but if these are not properly secured again thieves could break in.”
Ch Insp France also warned that while residents are enjoying a family barbecue in the back garden, thieves could be making off with their possessions from their home.
He said: “We are asking people to be sensible, not to leave windows and doors open, even while you are at home, and to not leave valuables on display, such as foreign currency for a holiday.”
While instances of burglary remain relatively low in Wokingham, Ch Insp France stressed that the police are doing everything they can do prevent further crimes.
Ch Insp France said: “There has been a particular trend towards sheds and garages being targeted, and local teams are working hard to understand the patterns and identify offenders.
“I would want to ask people to be alert for any suspicious activity, and if they have any concerns to call the police so that we can check it out.”
Thames Valley Police has issued the following advice for keeping your home secure during the summer:
- Ensure windows and doors are closed and locked when you are out. Don’t leave small windows open believing them to be safe.
- If you want to leave windows open while you sleep, fit window restrictors so they cannot be fully opened, or make sure they are not large enough to allow access to a burglar.
- When out in your garden ensure windows and doors to the front of the house are secure.
- Do not leave valuables on display in front of windows or in reach of open windows or doors.
- Ensure all barbecue and garden equipment and tools are securely locked up in a shed and out of sight. Tools can be used by the potential offender to break into your home.
- Consider fitting outside security lighting or a visible alarm to help deter burglars. Even using pea shingle or gravel on a driveway and spiky plants in garden beds can help.
- Don’t leave any keys near entry points where they can be ‘fished’ or ‘hooked’ out through the window, letter box or cat flap.
- Ensure any internal handle operated locks on UPVC doors are fully secured with a key.
For more information on keeping safe during the summer visit www.thamesvalley.police.uk/crime-prevention.
