
Police in south London are advising residents to keep their homes secure, whether they’re in or out, to help avoid becoming a victim of burglary.
Officers from Safer Neighbourhoods Teams across south London will be looking out for vulnerable homes over the next few weeks. Traditionally there is a rise in the number of burglaries at insecure premises at this time of year as burglars break in through unlocked or open doors and windows.
Burglars are operating both during the daytime and overnight and several homes with UPVC doors that have not been fully locked have also been targeted by thieves.
Overall, residential burglary across London has fallen by 11.4% over the past 12 months compared to the previous year, but police are keen to remind residents that they have a part to play in continuing this downward trend.
Police are issuing the following top tips to help residents avoid getting burgled over the summer:
- Mark or etch your property with your postcode, house or flat number or the first three letters of your house name.
- Register items with a serial number at: www.immobilise.com
- Do not leave your car keys or ID documents near doors, letterbox or windows.
- Always check who’s at the door and don’t open it if you feel anxious.
- Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.
- Keep your valuables out of sight.
- Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home.
- Install a visible burglar alarm.
- Always keep sheds and outbuildings locked.
- Cancel milk or other deliveries if you will be away for days or weeks at a time.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area call 999.
For more information and crime prevention advice on home security, visit: www.metbumblebee.org