With the clocks having gone back on Sunday, residents are being encouraged to play their part by switching on to some simple crime prevention tactics. As darkness will descend earlier in the day, we want to help ensure people don’t advertise their homes to thieves by leaving their property in darkness.
Local police Commander, Insp Paul McKinder says “Leaving your house in total darkness is a sure sign no one’s at home and an invitation to burglars. Burglars look for quick win opportunities; they don’t want to run the risk of a confrontation so simply leaving a light on to give the impression someone is at home is often enough to deter them.
‘’Timer switches can also be fitted to operate radios and lights if you’re not back from work until after dark or if you’re away for a few days. Leaving a light on costs literally pence in electricity – and that pales into insignificance compared to the hundreds of pounds in insurance excess you might have to pay should your home be broken in to.’’
Harborough Neighbourhood Watch Association are working with local police to supply timer switches at a cost of only £2.50 at their next Community Beat Surgery at Harborough’s indoor market on Tuesday 1st November from 9am-1pm. Other simple crime prevention items such as padlock alarms, door chains and personal alarms will also be available.
A high proportion of all break-ins are as a result of properties being left insecure so checking all windows and doors are locked before leaving the house is crucial. Other home security essentials are to use your burglar alarm if you have one – it’s amazing how many households don’t bother – and also to never leave a spare key under the doormat or a flowerpot. Burglars will always look there first so it’s not much of a ‘hiding place
Anyone wishing to find out more about Neighbourhood Watch or crime prevention advice and home security should contact their local Crime Prevention Officer at Leicestershire Constabulary on 101.
